Governor Zulum Advocates for Large-Scale Irrigation Farms to Ensure Food Security in Lake Chad Basin

In a groundbreaking address at the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, passionately called for the establishment of large-scale irrigation farms as a solution to the growing food insecurity in the Lake Chad Basin region.

Governor Zulum emphasized the region’s vast potential for agricultural development, noting that the Lake Chad Basin is endowed with significant arable land. “Borno State alone covers a landmass of 72,000 square kilometers, over 70% of which is arable land,” he said, stressing the need to tap into these resources for sustainable food production. He further pointed out that the traditional reliance on rain-fed agriculture is no longer viable given the growing population and the effects of climate change.

“Investing in irrigation is the only way forward. We must prioritize irrigated agriculture,” Governor Zulum asserted. “Unfortunately, our investments in irrigation remain far too low. With fertile land and the abundant water resources along the shores of Lake Chad, there is significant untapped potential that could address food security for the entire region.” He added that Borno State, in particular, could become a hub for large-scale irrigation farming, providing long-term solutions to food shortages.

During the panel discussion, titled “Ensuring Food Security through Building Resilience of Food Systems in the Lake Chad Basin Region,” Governor Zulum called for regional collaboration, involving not only state governors but also key partners such as the United Nations and agricultural experts. He highlighted that irrigation farming could be powered by either surface or drip irrigation systems, ensuring efficient use of the region’s limited water resources.

Additionally, Governor Zulum pointed out that livestock development plays a crucial role in the region’s economy. As the leading producer of livestock in the sub-region, the Lake Chad Basin could further benefit from irrigation schemes that support the growth of animal pastures, thereby boosting milk and beef production.

With the growing challenges posed by climate change, Governor Zulum stressed the need for research into climate-resilient crops and sustainable farming techniques. He also urged regional, federal, and international stakeholders, including the national governments of Chad, Cameroon, and Niger Republic, to support and drive this vital process.

“We must all work together to ensure that the Lake Chad Basin becomes a model of food security,” Governor Zulum concluded, calling for the necessary political will and collaboration to make large-scale irrigation farming a reality.