Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has called on African leaders to transit from rain-fed agriculture to climate-smart and irrigation-based farming systems to guarantee long-term food security across the continent.
Zulum made this call while addressing participants at the 6th Edition of African Regional Conference of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), held in Abuja on Monday.
The Governor emphasised the urgent need for strategic reforms and investments in Africa’s agricultural sector.
“To feed ourselves sustainably, we must rethink how we grow our food. Transitioning from rain-dependent systems to resilient, water-smart approaches is imperative”, he said.
The Governor added that this involved embracing climate-smart agriculture and developing efficient and inclusive irrigation infrastructure.
Zulum adbocated the need to empower research institutions, promote innovation, and enable the active participation of women and youth in agriculture.
“As a leader from a region facing both climate change and post-conflict recovery, I have seen first-hand how agriculture can restore dignity and rebuild communities.
“In Borno State, we are laying the groundwork for agricultural transformation through sustainable irrigation initiatives,”; he remarked.
