River basin authorities promise improved irrigation, agribusiness expansion
Nigeria’s River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) have declared a renewed commitment to expanding agricultural activities through large-scale irrigation and agribusiness ventures in response to the national food security crisis declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
During a retreat held in Abuja for board members and management teams of the RBDAs, the Chairman of the RBDA Managing Directors’ Forum, Alhaji Abubakar Malam, emphasized the role of the River Basin Authorities in executing the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He announced plans to scale up the deployment of modern irrigation technologies, open up more arable lands, and promote agribusiness models that engage youth and women.
Malam acknowledged the current limitations posed by outdated infrastructure and climate disruptions but affirmed the authorities’ readiness to transition to more sustainable and tech-driven systems. The RBDAs aim to align their efforts with global sustainable development goals such as Zero Hunger, Clean Water, and Climate Action.
Strategic collaborations with state governments and private sector players were highlighted as critical levers to unlock investments, while the adoption of open-door policies and partial commercialisation frameworks are set to encourage private participation.
The Forum assured that Nigerians would soon begin to see the tangible impact of these efforts in the form of increased food availability, reduced prices, and improved livelihoods.
Source- The Nation
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The RBDAs’ repositioning presents key opportunities and considerations for agri-food stakeholders across Nigeria’s value chain:
- Irrigation Infrastructure as a Growth Lever
The shift toward modern irrigation technologies is timely. With rain-fed agriculture increasingly unreliable due to climate variability, irrigation infrastructure is vital for year-round cultivation. Agribusiness investors, particularly in cereals, vegetables, and rice production, should begin mapping out zones near RBDA facilities for possible engagement. - Youth and Women in Agribusiness
Targeted initiatives aimed at youth and women can help address unemployment while diversifying agribusiness participation. Stakeholders should explore inclusive business models, such as contract farming, agritech incubation, and skills development programs, that align with this focus. - Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Partial Commercialisation
The invitation for private capital under a partial commercialisation model provides a unique opportunity for agribusinesses to partner with government in managing or co-developing irrigation systems, agro-processing centers, and farm settlements. However, this will require clear governance frameworks and investor protections to ensure long-term viability. - Technology and Sustainability as Anchors
RBDAs’ pledge to “think innovatively” aligns with global transitions toward climate-smart agriculture. Stakeholders should prioritize technologies that improve water efficiency, data-driven farm planning, and sustainable inputs. This is also an opportune time for agritech firms to propose scalable solutions tailored to RBDA zones. - Policy Alignment and Investment Mapping
With federal prioritisation now in place, state-level policies must rapidly align to support these efforts. Agribusiness leaders, especially those in primary production and agro-logistics, should engage both RBDA leadership and subnational governments to identify viable clusters for investment.
Conclusion
As the River Basin Authorities reposition themselves as enablers of large-scale agribusiness through irrigation and sustainable land use, the private sector must not remain on the sidelines. Collaborative action, targeted financing, and innovation will be key to turning these promises into a resilient, food-secure Nigeria.
