Minister Utsev inspects irrigation farm, commissions Access Road in Benue
By Titus Atondu, Makurdi
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, on Friday inspected an irrigation farm project in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, and commissioned the Ugondo Community access road.
During his visit to the irrigation site at Mbakuv in Makurdi Local Government Area, the minister noted that the farm covers over 3,000 hectares of arable land.
He explained that out of this total, 1,200 hectares have been designated for irrigation farming, while the remaining 1,800 hectares will be allocated to the forthcoming Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project.
“Currently, 400 hectares have already been cleared and are in use. A contract has also been awarded for the study and design of an additional 600 hectares, and the project is at an advanced stage,” Utsev stated.
He further mentioned that to facilitate the expansion of the existing irrigation farm, the ministry had awarded contracts for the construction of water channels.
“We have approved a contract for the construction of irrigation channels, another for drip irrigation, and one for the study and design of the farm’s expansion,” he said.
Commending the progress of the ongoing work, the minister remarked, “The contractor handling the irrigation channels is performing exceptionally well. The channels are nearly 90% complete, while the drip irrigation system is approximately 67% finished. You can see the crops flourishing—garden eggs, maize, peppers, and more. This is the kind of development we are implementing across different parts of Nigeria.”
Speaking further, Utsev revealed that the Otukpo Multipurpose Dam, currently at about 50% completion, has been included in the 2025 budget and is set for completion. He added that the ministry is considering integrating power generation at the dam to enhance electricity supply in the country.
At the commissioning of the 1.5-kilometre Ugondo Community access road, the minister stated that the road would significantly improve the transportation of agricultural produce to the town, enhancing the livelihoods of local farmers.
“This road will not only facilitate the movement of goods but also contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the community,” he added.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, encouraged the community to continue supporting the minister to attract further development projects.
“The more support and cooperation we receive, the more projects can be executed for the benefit of the people,” Pheelangwah remarked.
In his address, the traditional ruler of Makurdi, His Royal Highness Chief Vincent Ahule, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for appointing Senator George Akume as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Professor Utsev as a minister.
He assured the President of the full support of the people of Benue, stating that they remain committed to his leadership and future aspirations.
