New Kano Dam to Irrigate 1,250 Acres, Boost Food Security
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO — Kano State Government has commenced construction of a major irrigation dam designed to irrigate about 1,250 acres of farmland designed to boost food security and as well expand year-round agricultural production.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Danjuma Mahmoud, disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists while reviewing the ministry’s achievements over the past three years.
Mahmoud described the project as the most ambitious irrigation initiative currently being undertaken by the state government, saying it would significantly increase agricultural output and support farmers’ livelihoods.
“His Excellency the Governor has embarked on the most ambitious irrigation dam project in the state,” he said. “It is a two-kilometre-length dam that can hold up to three billion cubic litres of water and irrigate about 1,250 acres of channelised farmland.”
He explained that the dam is located in Dansoshiya and is expected to become the largest irrigation facility in Kano State upon completion.
“There is no irrigation facility in the state that is half the size or capacity of this dam project,” Mahmoud stated. “Work has reached an advanced stage, and we are optimistic about its impact on food production.”
He said the project forms part of the government’s broader strategy to expand irrigation farming, reduce dependence on rain-fed agriculture and improve resilience against climate-related challenges.
Mahmoud further revealed that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had approved the construction of a 14-kilometre access road linked to the irrigation scheme to facilitate the movement of farm produce and agricultural inputs.
“The road will enable easy evacuation of farm produce within the irrigation facility and improve access for farmers,” he said.
The commissioner added that the state government is also developing 11 smaller earth dams across various local government areas, with a combined irrigation capacity of about 1,200 acres.
He expressed confidence that the investments would enhance food security, create employment opportunities and strengthen Kano’s position as a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria.