NATIONAL IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE POLICY
Policy · Agriculture
A Policy establishes guidelines for developing and expanding irrigation and drainage infrastructure to boost agricultural productivity. It targets farmers, agricultural enterprises, and river basin authorities for support and training. This aims to ensure food security and support year-round farming.
What Is This Policy?
A policy to develop and expand irrigation and drainage infrastructure in Nigeria to boost agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and support year-round farming.
Who Does It Target?
Farmers, agricultural enterprises, River Basin Development Authorities, state agricultural agencies, and irrigation infrastructure developers.
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Expand irrigated agriculture, reduce dependency on rain-fed farming, boost crop yields, and improve food security and farmer incomes.
Key Features
Infrastructure Expansion: Supports construction and rehabilitation of irrigation and drainage systems. Farmer Support: Provides technical assistance and training for irrigated farming. Public-Private Partnership: Encourages private sector investment in irrigation. Water Efficiency: Promotes water-efficient irrigation technologies.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active with ongoing implementation. Coverage: Nationwide, with focus on northern Nigeria and other areas with irrigation potential. Funding: Federal budget, River Basin Development Authorities, and development partners.
How to Access
Farmers access irrigation services through River Basin Development Authorities and state programmes. Engage with local River Basin Development Authority Apply for irrigation scheme participation Access training on irrigated farming practices
Impact & Metrics
Expected to expand irrigated farmland and increase agricultural output.
Official Resources
Website: waterresources.gov.ng Contact: Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Abuja
Legal Framework
Operates under the National Water Resources Act 2023, the River Basin Development Authorities Act, the Land Use Act 1978, the National Agricultural Policy, and the National Rural Development Policy. Draws on FAO irrigation and drainage guidelines and the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) on irrigation.