SRRBDA Shows Off Women-Centered Farming Support in Kebbi

The Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA) has rolled out a women-focused empowerment programme in Kebbi State, distributing solar-powered irrigation machines, livestock, and improved rice seedlings to strengthen food production and lift rural households out of poverty.

At the launch in Birnin Kebbi’s Zauro Polder Irrigation Project, SRRBDA’s Managing Director, Alhaji Abubakar Malam represented by Hon. Kabiru Ladan Maigoro said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative, which prioritises women’s economic growth.

Malam noted that expanding irrigation farming and supporting smallholder women farmers will help Nigeria meet its food security goals faster while also creating wealth in rural communities. “Women are central to the nation’s food chain. By equipping them with tools and livestock, we are not only improving family incomes but also guaranteeing food security for millions of Nigerians,” he said.

Kebbi, already regarded as Nigeria’s agricultural hub, continues to play a pivotal role in the nation’s food basket. Governor Nasir Idris and Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu were commended for sustaining this leadership.

Programme Manager of the Zauro Polder Project, Hajiya Mariyatu Sulaiman, urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity, while community leaders pledged their support to ensure accountability and sustainability.

Hundreds of women across Zauro, Ambursa, Augie, Argungu, Yauri, and Zuru benefitted from the first phase, receiving solar-powered irrigation machines, improved rice seedlings, and livestock tools expected to directly impact food production and women’s livelihoods.