Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev says operationalization of the Odo Ape Dam in Kogi State will alleviate poverty, and contribute to food security for the economic prosperity of the community and the country at large.
Prof. Utsev stated this while commissioning the dam in Kogi state.
The Minister who emphasized that the Dam will drive economic growth, job creation and poverty eradication added that the commissioning of the Odo-Ape Dam underscores the current administration’s commitment to optimizing the nation’s water resources and ensuring year-round farming to boost food production.
He stressed the 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 respectively.
Prof. Utsev expressed optimism that in addressing the needs of the populace, particularly in providing portable water, sanitation, hygiene and food security, the Ministry will 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.
He explained that the Ministry has established a robust Monitoring and Evaluation framework to ensure accountability in project initiation, implementation, and management, stressing that it remains dedicated to sustainable water supply management, Sanitation, and Hygiene to foster a healthy and economically empowered society.
The Minister expressed gratitude to President Bola 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.
Prof. Utsev further pledged to donate a solar-powered irrigation pump to the community and assured training for farmers to optimize the dam’s use.
On his part the Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, who was represented by the State Security Adviser, Navy Commander Jerry Omodara Rtd, who commended the Federal Government for enhancing food production in Odo-Ape and its environs promised that the Dam will be used judiciously.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Dr. Adeniyi Aremu stressed that the Authority is committed to implementing water resources development policies aimed at improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
Dr. Aremu noted that the distribution of solar-powered irrigation pumps across Kogi and Kwara States has not only saved farmers money but also enhanced agricultural productivity in the region.
“Regarding the newly commissioned Odo-Ape Dam, its significant capacity of 3.5 million cubic meters. The dam is set to 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” he emphasized
Dr. Aremu stressed that this initiative will contribute to food security, create employment opportunities, alleviate poverty, and stimulate rural development, particularly in Kogi State.
Other dignitaries present at the commissioning include the State Commissioner for Education, Royal fathers from Odo-Ape, Kabba and environs, farmers, Water Users Association members, and community leaders.
By Georgina Humphrey, Edited By Grace Namiji
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