November 8th, 2024.
The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement to construct seven new dams across the six Southwest states, marking a significant milestone in regional agricultural development and food security enhancement.
In a statement released on Friday, the organization said the infrastructure initiative aligns with its advocacy, for the past 18 months, through expert dialogues, policy advocacy, and stakeholder engagement for comprehensive irrigation development in Southwest Nigeria, which has been identified as crucial for year-round food production and agricultural sustainability.
Notably, during the Southwest Commissioners for Agriculture’s meeting held at DAWN Commission headquarters in Ibadan in June 2024, the provision of new dams and resuscitation of existing ones emerged as the topmost priority in the communique. This regional stance was further reinforced when all 36 state commissioners convened in Abuja weeks later.
“This landmark decision by the Federal Government validates our long-standing position that irrigation infrastructure is fundamental to achieving food security in Southwest Nigeria,” said Dr. Seye Oyeleye, Director-General of DAWN Commission. “The new dams will serve as a catalyst for transforming subsistence farming into sustainable agribusiness.”
The irrigation project brings multiple transformative benefits to Southwest Nigeria’s agricultural sector, particularly providing smallholder farmers with the resources and support needed to transition from subsistence farming to more profitable, market-oriented agriculture.
Additionally, the project is expected to have a stabilizing effect on food prices, making essential agricultural products more accessible to vulnerable populations. The initiative will also create substantial employment opportunities in rural communities, contributing to economic growth and social development across the region.
The statement added that “By investing in irrigation infrastructure, we can empower rural farming households to increase their productivity and income. This will directly reduce poverty, stabilize food prices and create sustainable farm and non farm employment.”
“DAWN Commission will continue to work with the Southwest states to ensure the dams are appropriately sited, based on our extensive technical work, and to expedite the commencement of construction,” Oyeleye added, while commending the state governors “for their ongoing efforts to boost food production, and this Federal Government intervention serves as a testament to their dedication and hard work.”
About DAWN Commission:
The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission is the dedicated institution for the sustainable development of Southwest Nigeria. Established as the regional integration vehicle and development catalyst for the six Southwest states, DAWN Commission facilitates cooperation and coordination for the socio-economic development of the region.