In Nigeria, the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) is set to begin the execution of a four-year strategic plan worth N30.7 billion ($88.7 million) in Edo, Ekiti, Ondo and Delta. This aims to enhance sustainable agriculture production, ensure completion of on-going irrigation projects in the States and expand BORBDA’s commercial investment outlook.

According to the Managing Director of BORBDA, Saliu Ahmed, the four-year plan would be funded via a partnership with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, development partners and Public Private Partnership (PPP).

“The focus will be on those projects that will create multiplier effect on the economy to achieve faster growth and address challenges, particularly food security. The plan is also expected to address challenges of employment, poverty reduction, water supply, environmental protection and improve revenue generating status of BORBDA. The Basin will reposition itself to meet these challenges for balanced, integrated and sustainable development of its catchment states,” he said.

Anita Fatunji