Yobe, FAO-UN partner on floodwater harvesting for sustainable farming
Story by Kasim Isa Muhammad, Damaturu
In a bid to tackle the challenges posed by recurrent flooding and its impact on food security, the Yobe State Government, through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), has initiated discussions with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO-UN) to launch a pilot project on floodwater harvesting for dry-season farming.
Neptune Prime learned that over the past three years, from 2022 to 2024, Yobe State has witnessed devastating floods that have displaced thousands of households, destroyed vast farmlands, and exacerbated food insecurity across affected communities.
In response, the state government, with support from various partners, has provided emergency relief, including cash, food, and essential supplies, to alleviate the suffering of those impacted.
READ ALSO: NEMA, NSEMA deploy teams following Niger dynamite explosion
Following the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NIMET) predictions for 2025, Governor Mai Mala Buni directed SEMA to explore long-term solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of flooding. Among the strategies are the early dissemination of weather forecasts, intensified community sensitisation, and the adoption of innovative floodwater management techniques.
As part of this directive, SEMA’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Goje, led an inception meeting with the FAO-UN team, headed by Al Hassan Cisse, to discuss the framework of the proposed floodwater harvesting project.
The initiative aims to utilise harvested floodwater for sustainable agricultural practices, with initial sites earmarked in Nangere and Karasuwa (Gasma) local government areas.
Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Goje stressed the significance of this collaboration, emphasising the need for a paradigm shift in flood response strategies. “For years, we have dealt with flooding as a disaster that requires immediate intervention—providing food, shelter, and medical aid to affected communities. While these efforts are crucial, they are not enough. We must rethink our approach by transforming a challenge into an opportunity. That is why we are looking at floodwater harvesting as a sustainable solution.
“Instead of allowing floodwaters to destroy livelihoods, we can channel them into productive use, particularly for dry-season farming, which will enhance food security and economic resilience in our communities.”
He further stated, “This partnership with FAO-UN is a major step towards achieving that vision. We are not only exploring ways to mitigate the impact of flooding but also creating an avenue for affected farmers to rebuild their lives through alternative agricultural practices. If successfully implemented, this initiative will serve as a model for other flood-prone areas, proving that with the right strategy and collaboration, disaster-prone regions can turn adversity into prosperity.”
Al Hassan Cisse of FAO-UN reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting Yobe State in its quest for sustainable flood management solutions.
“FAO-UN recognises the importance of proactive measures in tackling climate-induced challenges. This project is in alignment with our broader goal of promoting sustainable agriculture and food security. We are optimistic that with the right framework and execution, Yobe State will see significant improvement in its agricultural productivity and overall resilience to flooding.”
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
