*Pix above: Dignitaries at the Odo-Ape Dam commissioning
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The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has commissioned the Odo-Ape Dam project in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
–The Dam
The commissioning of the dam project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the declaration of a state of emergency on food security across the country.
Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, who commissioned the Dam project, e mphasised the significance of the Dam in driving economic growth, job creation, and poverty eradication.
He stressed Federal Government’s commitment to water resources development for socio-economic advancement and highlighted the vital role of water in various sectors such as human consumption, agriculture, industry, and sanitation.
He added that the commissioning of the Odo-Ape Dam underscored the current administration’s commitment to optimising the nation’s water resources and ensuring all- year-round farming to boost food production.
–More dignitaries
He expressed optimism that in addressing the needs of the populace, particularly in providing portable water, sanitation, hygiene, and food security, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation would continue to collaborate with state governments, other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), development partners, donor agencies, as well as communities to drive the Renewed Hope Agenda to success.
Prof Utsev disclosed that the Ministry has established a robust Monitoring and Evaluation framework to ensure accountability in project initiation, implementation, and management, stressing that the Ministry remains dedicated to sustainable water supply management, Sanitation, and Hygiene to foster a healthy and economically empowered society.
He maintained that the operationalisation of the Odo-Ape Dam marked a crucial step towards poverty alleviation and socio-economic well-being, contributing to food security and economic prosperity of the community and its environs and Kogi State at large.
The Minister expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, as well as Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State and the traditional rulers in Odo-Ape, Kabba and environs for their cooperation.
Utsev announced the donation of a solar-powered irrigation pump to the community and assured training for farmers to optimise the dam’s use.
The project received commendation from Kogi State Security Adviser, Navy Commander Jerry Omodara, Rtd, who represented Governor Usman Ododo, for its potential to enhance food production in Odo-Ape and its environs.
He gave an assurance on behalf of the people that the Dam will be used judiciously.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Dr. Adeniyi Saheed Aremu, highlighted the Authority’s commitment to implementing water resources development policies aimed at improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
He specifically mentioned the Odo-Ape project, which focuses on expanding irrigation capabilities.
Engr. Aremu revealed that the distribution of solar-powered irrigation pumps across Kogi and Kwara States have not only saved farmers money but also enhanced agricultural productivity in the region.
Regarding the newly commissioned Odo-Ape Dam, he emphasised its significant capacity of 3.5 million cubic meters.
The dam, he said, would irrigate 700 hectares of farmland, benefiting over 2,800 farmers.
The projected outcomes include the production of 3,000 metric tonnes of grains and vegetables annually, generating half a billion naira in revenue, and promoting aquaculture development.
Engr. Aremu stressed that this initiative will contribute to food security, create employment opportunities, alleviate poverty, and stimulate rural development, particularly in Kogi State./PLEASE SHARE
*Tags: PBAT, Prof Joseph Utsev, Gov Usman Ododo
