FG, Edo deepen ties on water infrastructure, food security

The Federal Government and the Edo State Government on Tuesday strengthened collaboration to accelerate water infrastructure development, boost food production and improve security around critical national assets in the state.

The renewed partnership was sealed in Benin when the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, led a delegation from the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority on a courtesy visit to Governor Monday Okpebholo at Government House.

Speaking during the meeting, Utsev commended the Edo State Government for its cooperation and ongoing infrastructural efforts, particularly road rehabilitation projects leading to federal facilities.

The minister, however, raised concerns over operational challenges confronting the Authority, including security threats and encroachment on project sites.

He cited incidents of vandalism and illegal activities around the Obayantor axis, calling for urgent measures to safeguard water infrastructure and reclaim encroached lands in Obayantor, Illushi and other operational areas.

On ongoing projects, Utsev disclosed that the Jattu Dam, being jointly implemented by both tiers of government, had recorded appreciable progress.

He, however, urged the state government to fulfil its counterpart funding obligation of about 25 per cent to ensure timely completion of the project.

The minister also called for intervention at the Auchi Integrated Farm, where erosion is threatening existing facilities, while commending ongoing rehabilitation works on the Benin-Sapele Road.

Utsev expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between both levels of government would significantly enhance agricultural productivity, improve water supply and stimulate rural development.

Responding, Governor Okpebholo stressed that collaboration between federal and state governments remains vital to achieving sustainable development, particularly in the water sector.

The governor disclosed that he had personally inspected facilities under the River Basin Authority and expressed concern over vandalism and wastage of public resources.

“A lot of resources are being wasted. This is not acceptable. You cannot invest so much and have it destroyed by acts of vandalism. We are taking steps to strengthen security around such areas,” he said.

Okpebholo revealed plans to establish a security outfit in vulnerable locations, including Obayantor, describing the axis as volatile.

Earlier, during a meeting with management and staff of the Authority, the minister underscored the central role of River Basin Development Authorities in achieving national food security, describing them as critical to agricultural productivity due to their access to land, water and human resources.

He said enhancing food production would create jobs, improve livelihoods and strengthen economic growth, adding that food security remains closely tied to national stability and human well-being.

Utsev noted that his visit was aimed at assessing operational challenges firsthand and identifying practical, lasting solutions in collaboration with stakeholders.

He acknowledged concerns raised by staff and union leadership, including the need for an access road to the facility, salary restructuring, promotions, training and improved working conditions.

The minister assured that the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation would engage relevant authorities to address the issues, noting that some would be resolved internally while others would require broader consultations.

He also expressed concern over the level of deterioration observed at the facilities, describing it as disheartening, but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring functionality and improving staff welfare.

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In his welcome address, the Managing Director of the Authority, Dr Olufemi Samuel Adekanmbi, highlighted key challenges facing the Basin, including staff welfare, poor access roads and the lack of utility vehicles for operations.

Adekanmbi also raised concerns over delayed promotions, inadequate training, salary structure and poor office conditions.

He stressed that continuous staff training is essential for improving productivity and keeping personnel abreast of modern technologies, noting that it is a necessity rather than a privilege.

He added that issues such as salary restructuring and poor office infrastructure, both at the permanent site and central area, require urgent attention, including improved security.