The Joint Appointees Forum of the twelve River Basin Development Authorities has pledged full commitment to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the national food security mandate, following the conclusion of a two-day strategic retreat in Abuja.
The retreat, held on May 2nd and 3rd, brought together Boards and Management teams of the River Basin Development Authorities to align on critical responsibilities and collaborative strategies. The forum emphasized the pivotal role of the River Basin Authorities in advancing agricultural productivity, rural development, and sustainable water resource management in line with the presidential declaration of a state of emergency on food security.
Speaking at a press conference following the retreat, the Joint Appointees Forum commended the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Utsev, for his charge to align with the national agenda by accelerating agricultural expansion, fostering agribusiness opportunities for youth, and encouraging private sector investments.
“We wish to assure His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, that all twelve River Basin Development Authorities are committed to actualising this national agenda,” the Forum stated. “This includes expanding arable land, increasing food availability, and creating agribusiness opportunities for youth and women groups nationwide.”
The forum acknowledged the challenges facing the sector, including obsolete infrastructure, climate change impacts, and regional insecurity. However, they expressed determination to overcome these hurdles through innovative thinking and the adoption of modern irrigation technologies.
The Forum outlined a series of priorities in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 2 (Zero Hunger), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and 13 (Climate Action). Key actions include expanding irrigated farmland, equipping farmers with modern agricultural skills, enhancing value chains, and reducing post-harvest losses.
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, the Forum called for stronger partnerships with state governments and private sector stakeholders. “We are committed to building strong partnerships to align local actions with national priorities. We also invite the private sector to take full advantage of the partial commercialisation framework and invest in our development zones.”
In closing, the Forum reaffirmed its commitment to contributing meaningfully to national development and achieving the 2027 food security mandate. “As we return from this retreat, may our renewed understanding translate into bold action, sustainable impact, and collective progress,” the Forum concluded.
The retreat marks a renewed resolve among the River Basin Authorities to take decisive steps in supporting food sufficiency, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability across Nigeria.
