Zulum Pledges to Revive Biu Dam, Boost Irrigation, Food Security
By Tada Juthan, Maiduguri
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to resuscitating the long-abandoned Biu Dam to enhance irrigation farming and food security across the South Senatorial District.
Zulum made this pledge on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Biu, His Royal Highness Mai Mustapha Umar Mustapha, as part of his three-day working tour of the emirate.
“The completion of this abandoned dam is crucial to addressing the over two-decade-long water scarcity challenge in the region,” the governor stated. He emphasized that reviving the dam would restore large-scale irrigation activities within the Hawul River Basin, benefiting six local government areas in the senatorial district.
Underscoring the importance of irrigation farming, Zulum noted that agriculture remains a cornerstone of his administration’s policies. “Our goal is to ensure food security and provide sustainable livelihoods, especially for those affected by the Boko Haram insurgency,” he said.
He assured the emir and the people of Biu that the dam’s completion, projected for 2026, would significantly transform agricultural productivity and economic opportunities in the region.
“Agriculture is one of the cardinal pillars of my administration, and we will continue to invest in the sector to improve food security and the livelihoods of our people,” he declared.
Governor Zulum also announced that more development initiatives would be implemented in the emirate before his tenure ends in 2027. He stressed the need for unity among political leaders, stating that collective efforts could accelerate economic growth and infrastructural development across the state.
“It is heartwarming to note that Borno State is not experiencing any political crisis. Our National and State Assembly members, as well as other political officeholders, remain united in delivering the dividends of democracy,” Zulum remarked.
In his response, Emir Mai Mustapha Umar Mustapha lauded Governor Zulum for his unwavering commitment to people-oriented projects in Biu Emirate. He specifically commended the governor for launching a ₦1 billion empowerment program aimed at supporting youths and vulnerable groups whose livelihoods were destroyed by the 15-year insurgency.
The Emir expressed gratitude for the state government’s continuous support, affirming that the planned revival of the Biu Dam and other development projects would significantly improve the well-being of residents.
With agriculture at the forefront of his administration’s priorities, Governor Zulum’s renewed focus on irrigation farming is expected to boost food production, enhance economic stability, and strengthen Borno’s resilience against food insecurity.
