Residents of Jama’are Local Government Area in Bauchi State have appealed to the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA) for improved access to clean water and better irrigation systems to support their farming activities and daily needs.
A delegation from the community met with HJRBDA officials in Kano to discuss their concerns.
They highlighted the urgent need for functional irrigation canals, additional dams, and comprehensive flood control measures.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Bello Usman Khalipha stressed the importance of water to the community’s livelihood.
“Water is essential. Our people need reliable access to clean water for drinking, farming, and economic stability.”
Khalipha pointed out the inadequacy of the current irrigation systems, explaining that many farmers struggle due to poorly maintained and insufficient water canals.
“Our livelihoods depend on farming, but without a functional irrigation system, we are vulnerable to unpredictable rainfall.”
Beyond irrigation, the delegation also raised concerns over annual flooding in Jama’are, which destroys homes, farmlands, and sometimes leads to loss of life.
He called for additional dams to control flooding and ensure water storage during dry periods.
Youth representative Aminu Wali emphasized that similar projects have been successfully implemented in other communities and urged HJRBDA to extend the same interventions to Jama’are.
Responding to the appeal, the acting Managing Director of HJRBDA, Engr. Bello Sani Gwarzo, reassured the delegation of the authority’s commitment to addressing their concerns.
“We understand the difficulties faced by Jama’are residents. Water resource management is a priority for us, and we are working on strategies that will enhance irrigation, improve access to clean water, and mitigate flooding risks.”
He encouraged the community to formally document their requests in a structured format to facilitate the development of practical solutions.
He also urged them to work closely with their elected representatives to accelerate project approvals.
