Katsina Trains Water Users’ Associations on Sustainable Irrigation Management
From Mu’awiyya Bala Idris Katsina
The Katsina State Irrigation Development Authority (KTIDA) has commenced a two-day capacity-building programme for newly established Water Users’ Associations (WUAs) across government-owned irrigation schemes, as part of efforts to promote sustainable irrigation management and enhance agricultural productivity.
The training, which brought together 68 dry-season farmers, is designed to strengthen the capacity of the associations to effectively manage, protect and sustain irrigation facilities while improving the productivity and livelihoods of farming communities.
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Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Managing Director of KTIDA, Engr. Saleem Suleiman, said irrigation infrastructure can only deliver its full benefits when the communities that depend on it are well-organised and actively involved in its management.
He explained that the Water Users’ Associations are expected to work closely with the authority and farming communities to ensure the effective, transparent and sustainable management of irrigation schemes across the state.
Engr. Suleiman reiterated the Katsina State Government’s commitment to providing and rehabilitating irrigation infrastructure but stressed that the long-term sustainability of the facilities depends on collective responsibility.
According to him, while the government will continue to provide infrastructure, policy direction and technical support, KTIDA will offer professional guidance, supervision and institutional support to the associations.
He noted that members of the Water Users’ Associations must assume responsibility for the day-to-day use, protection and maintenance of irrigation facilities, including canals, water-control structures, pumps, earth dams, tube wells and other assets.
The Managing Director urged participants to regard the facilities as community assets rather than government property, emphasizing that their continued functionality is directly linked to increased agricultural productivity, higher yields and improved incomes for farmers.
Engr. Suleiman assured the associations of KTIDA’s continued support, stating that the authority remains open to dialogue, technical advice and addressing legitimate concerns raised by farmers.
He added that KTIDA would continue to advocate for improved irrigation infrastructure, rehabilitation of existing facilities, efficient water management practices and the adoption of modern irrigation technologies to boost agricultural production in the state.
The Managing Director also commended the Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, for his unwavering commitment to agricultural development, food security, irrigation expansion and improving the livelihoods of the people.
Speaking on behalf of the participating Water Users’ Associations, the Chairman of the Nasarawa-Bugaje Water Users’ Association, Sabiu Danladi, alongside Nura Habu of Mai’adua and Shafi’u Abubakar Machika of Funtua Zone, expressed appreciation to the state government and KTIDA for organising the training.
They described the programme as timely and impactful, noting that it had enhanced their understanding of the responsibilities of Water Users’ Associations and the importance of effective irrigation management in supporting dry-season farming.
The participants pledged to share the knowledge gained with other members of their respective associations and to promote the responsible use, protection and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding water resources and irrigation facilities to ensure they continue to benefit farmers and future generations.
As part of the programme, participants are expected to embark on a field study visit to the Centre for Dryland Agriculture at Bayero University Kano (BUK) to gain practical insights into modern irrigation techniques and sustainable agricultural practices.
