By Abdu Saidu, Kano
The Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) Kano State chapter, which is made up of representatives from all 44 local government areas and their executives under its Chairman Alh. Abubakar Haruna Aliyu (ABH) has bestowed a heartfelt commendation on Senator Sulaiman Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, OFR, PhD, for his innovative contributions to agriculture in the Kano South Senatorial District.
They claim that these accomplishments demonstrate his dedication to turning agriculture into a pillar of growth and a source of income for thousands of local farmers.
Speaking to newsmen in Kano, RIFAN’s state chairman through its treasurer, Usaini Shu’aibu, described the senator as a beacon of hope and innovation for the agricultural sector. Among Senator Sumaila’s notable accomplishments is his successful motion in the Senate, which led to the approval of a colossal N95 billion irrigation canal project that aims to rejuvenate Kano South’s dormant agricultural potential.
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The canals are designed to harness the untapped resources of three critical dams in the region:
1 Tiga Dam
2 Karaye Dam
3 Kafin-Chiri Dam
According to Shu’aibu, the irrigation project represents an ambitious step forward, bringing the promise of year-round farming to Kano South. Traditionally reliant on rain-fed agriculture, farmers in the area have long faced challenges stemming from irregular rainfall and the absence of an effective irrigation system.
Moreover, the new canal project, however, intends to buck these tendencies by ensuring a consistent flow of water for farming. As a key factor in achieving Nigeria’s food security objectives, it also establishes the area as a center for sustainable food production.
“By ensuring access to water through irrigation, the project will empower thousands of farmers to cultivate their lands throughout the year, boost crop yields, and significantly enhance the overall productivity of Kano South’s agricultural sector,” Shu’aibu said.
With its enormous tracts of fertile land, Kano South might become a breadbasket for Nigeria as a whole as well as Kano State. Higher output of staple crops including rice, maize, and vegetables is anticipated as a result of improved irrigation. This will thereby improve local economies, create jobs, and lessen dependency on food imports.
In his words: “Senator Sumaila’s irrigation canal project is more than just infrastructure; it is a lifeline for countless farming families. It gives us the tools we need to compete on a national scale while ensuring that food prices remain affordable for the average Nigerian.”
Shu’aibu conveyed the sincere appreciation of RIFAN for the senator’s unwavering commitment to agriculture and his general service to the Kano South populace.
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“On behalf of the entire membership of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), we are immensely grateful for your monumental success and significant accomplishments in the year 2024, particularly in agriculture and irrigation. Your work impacts not just Kano South but the entire Kano area and Nigeria as a whole,” Shu’aibu remarked.
In addition to his efforts in agriculture, Senator Sumaila’s leadership style has garnered widespread respect. Known for his integrity, courage, and compassion, he has become a unifying figure, working tirelessly to uplift his constituents.
“We pray for Senator Kawu Sumaila’s tenure to continue being marked by wisdom, foresight, and dedication. May his legacy inspire the next generation of leaders to prioritize the welfare of their people,” Shu’aibu concluded.
People are hopeful that this historic project would transform agriculture in Kano South as it moves forward. The irrigation system not only offers immediate advantages but also establishes the groundwork for a sustainable future in which the region’s agricultural resilience will be a defining characteristic.It aligns with global calls for smart agricultural practices that balance food production with environmental preservation.
The fervent acclaim of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria for Senator Sumaila signifies the farmers’ profound gratitude for a leader who recognizes their difficulties and acts decisively to resolve them.
As the Senator continues his tenure, his achievements serve as a testament to what visionary leadership can accomplish. The irrigation project, in particular, is a milestone that will leave an indelible mark on Kano South, paving the way for prosperity and stability for generations to come.
