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 with the capacity of 3.5 million cubic meters is expected to irrigate 700 hectares of farmland, benefiting over 2,800 farmers, while the projected outcomes include the production of 3,000 metric tons of grains and vegetables annually, generating half a billion Naira in revenue, and promoting aquaculture development.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, commissioning the Dam project recently, emphasized the significance of the Dam in driving economic growth, job creation, and poverty eradication.
A statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, the Minister stressed FG’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.
According to him, 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 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 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.
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 operationalization of the Odo Ape Dam marks a crucial step towards poverty alleviation and socio-economic well-being, contributing to food security and economic prosperity of the community and it’s environs and Kogi State at large.
The minister further announced the donation of a solar-powered irrigation pump to the community and assured training for farmers to optimize the dam’s use.
Also, 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 said the Odo-Ape project focuses on expanding irrigation capabilities.
Engr. Aremu revealed 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.
Engr. Aremu stressed that this initiative will contribute to food security, create employment opportunities, alleviate poverty, and stimulate rural development, particularly in Kogi State.
