Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has inaugurated the Lallashi Borehole-Based Irrigation Scheme in Maigatari Local Government Area. The project, which combines solar energy with innovative irrigation techniques, marks a major step forward in the state’s agricultural development.
The inauguration, announced in a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, highlights the state’s commitment to improving farming productivity and ensuring a steady food supply for local communities. The Lallashi scheme is designed to provide reliable irrigation, helping farmers to grow crops throughout the year, irrespective of seasonal rainfall patterns.
Governor Namadi described the Lallashi Irrigation Scheme as a key component of his administration’s efforts to modernise agriculture in Jigawa. The project is built on a 10-hectare land, supported by four industrial boreholes. The scheme is expected to benefit 80 smallholder farmers directly, offering them the opportunity to increase their crop yields and, consequently, their incomes.
“This project will help tackle food insecurity in the state by enabling farmers to grow crops year-round. It will also reduce the risks associated with seasonal droughts and unpredictable rainfall,” Governor Namadi explained during the inauguration ceremony. He added that the use of solar energy to power the irrigation system aligns with his government’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices in agriculture.
The adoption of semi-conduit and drip irrigation techniques ensures water is efficiently distributed to the crops, minimizing wastage and maximising productivity. These methods are known for their water efficiency, especially in regions where water resources are limited. The solar-powered systems also make the project environmentally friendly, cutting down on reliance on fossil fuels.
Governor Namadi has reiterated his administration’s commitment to expanding irrigation systems across the state, with a particular focus on borehole-based schemes and the construction of dams. This project is a crucial part of his 12-Point Agenda, which aims to enhance agricultural infrastructure and boost food production in Jigawa.
The Governor revealed that similar irrigation projects are already under construction in Birniwa and Kafin Hausa local government areas, with these projects expected to be completed in the near future. Additionally, the 2025 state budget includes provisions for more irrigation initiatives in areas such as Gumel, Sule Tankarkar, and Gagarawa, ensuring that the benefits of reliable water supply extend to even more farmers across Jigawa State.
“Irrigation is the future of agriculture in Jigawa. By providing reliable water sources for our farmers, we are not only increasing food production but also creating economic opportunities and improving livelihoods,” Governor Namadi stated.
Solar-powered irrigation systems are particularly advantageous in rural and remote areas like Maigatari, where access to a stable power supply can be unreliable. By harnessing the power of the sun, the Lallashi project ensures that the irrigation system can operate efficiently even in areas where the electricity grid does not reach.
For the local community, the scheme represents not just an improvement in farming techniques, but also a chance for economic diversification. With the increased agricultural productivity, local markets are expected to see a rise in the supply of produce, offering new opportunities for trade and business growth.