The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has officially handed over the consultancy services for the establishment and strengthening of Water Users Associations (WUAs) to OMADAC Engineering Limited.
The handover ceremony, held at the Gari Irrigation Project site in Jigawa State, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to enhance agricultural productivity, improve water management, and strengthen food security in the country.
This transition ushers in the next phase of the Gari Irrigation Project, focusing on sustainability, community ownership, and capacity building. Under the new arrangement, OMADAC Engineering Limited will oversee the management and technical strengthening of the Water Users Associations within the Gari Irrigation Scheme, ensuring efficient irrigation operations and equitable water distribution among farmers.
Speaking at the event, Director of Irrigation and Drainage, Engr. (Mrs.) Esther Oyeronke Oluniyi, FNSE, represented by Engr. Victor Ojiako, Director II, Irrigation and Drainage, commended the collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, the Hadejia–Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, and local communities. She emphasized that the project would transform agricultural livelihoods, boost economic resilience, and contribute significantly to food security in Jigawa State and beyond.
The Project Coordinator, Mrs. Florence Oyakhirome, described the handover as a major landmark in the collective journey toward sustainable agricultural development and improved livelihoods for farming communities. She noted that the project demonstrates the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to food security and effective water resource management through collaborative partnerships. Mrs. Oyakhirome also expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, the Hadejia–Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), and the benefiting communities for their dedication and teamwork.
She added that “when communities take ownership of development projects, projects becomes sustainable, and that is exactly what the Gari Irrigation Project stands for.” She also emphasized on women participation in irrigated agriculture, noting that women and youth contribute up to 45-50% in farming, and up to 90% of labour in certain activities like rice. She further encouraged that women should be part of the executives in the establishment and strengthening Water Users Associations.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Managing Director of HJRBDA, Mr. Abba Rasheed, Deputy Director of Agricultural Services, described the handover as an achievement that reflects a shared commitment to empowering farmers and improving livelihoods. He encouraged beneficiaries to take ownership of the infrastructure and ensure its proper use and maintenance for lasting impact.
Also speaking at the event, Engr. Ibe Uzoechi, National Desk Officer for the Water Users Association (WUA), noted that the development would not only enhance agricultural productivity but also empower farmers to take greater responsibility in the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems. He urged farmers to work collectively through their Water Users Associations and safeguard the infrastructure for the benefit of present and future generations.
In his remarks, Alhaji Haruna Isyaku, President of the Water Users Association, Gari Irrigation Scheme, described the occasion as a new beginning for farmers within the scheme. He stated that with improved irrigation facilities, farmers are now better positioned to increase crop production, diversify their activities, and improve their livelihoods. He added that the project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when government, institutions, and communities work together toward a common goal. He assured all stakeholders that the Association would take full ownership of the scheme, manage it responsibly, and ensure its sustainability for the benefit of all members.
The Gari Irrigation Project, one of Nigeria’s flagship irrigation initiatives, was designed to improve water use efficiency and expand irrigable land for farmers. With this handover, the project enters a new era of community-driven management under the technical guidance of OMADAC Engineering Limited.
The highlight of the ceremony was the official handover of the project documents to OMADAC Engineering Limited by representatives of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
Signed
Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan
Director, Information and PR
4 October 2025
