The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has urged the federal government to replenish Lake Chad using internal water sources.
Once one of the world’s largest water bodies, Lake Chad has shrunk by 90% from 1960 to the present day, as reported by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations.
During a meeting in Abuja on Monday, April 22, Zulum’s media aide, Abdurrahman Bundi, quoted the governor as emphasizing the importance of recharging Lake Chad with internal water sources to enhance agricultural activities and ensure food security for the nation.
Zulum also called for collaboration with the federal government to strengthen irrigation capabilities in Borno State and guarantee food security.
Addressing the impact of insurgency on agricultural activities in the state, Zulum expressed his intention to work with the federal government to revive irrigation projects now that peace is being re-established.
In response, Minister of Water Resources, Prof Joseph Utsev, affirmed the government’s willingness to collaborate with the Borno State Government in boosting agricultural productivity and improving food security.