Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has officially signed into law a ₦16 billion irrigation project at Jakara Dam, marking a significant milestone in the state's agricultural development agenda.

The signing ceremony took place during the 28th Executive Council Meeting, where the governor approved two crucial pieces of legislation: the Water Users Association Establishment Law, 2025, and an amendment to the Water Resources Engineering and Construction Agency (WRECA) Law.

According to Mustapha Muhammad, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the newly enacted Water Users Association Law empowers the state government to undertake construction, operations, and maintenance of irrigation infrastructure.

"With the passage of this bill into law, the Kano State Government can now commence the construction of a large-scale irrigation project at Jakara Dam," Muhammad stated. "This project has the capacity to provide 1,500 hectares for irrigation farming."

The Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Haruna Doguwa, explained that the legislation enables the state to access ₦16 billion in funding for the Jakara Dam Irrigation Project. He highlighted that thousands of farmers in Minjibir, Gabasawa, Gezawa, and surrounding areas will directly benefit from this initiative.

"The state government will open a dedicated account and deposit ₦5 billion to support off-season farmers, aiming to enhance food production and economic empowerment in the state," Doguwa added.

The WRECA Law amendment allows for the appointment of a Deputy Managing Director for the agency, strengthening its organizational structure to better implement water resource projects.

The commissioner expressed confidence that the irrigation project will create wealth, generate employment opportunities, and significantly increase agricultural production in Kano State.

This initiative aligns with Governor Yusuf's administration's development strategy, which has consistently prioritized agriculture and infrastructure as key pillars for economic growth and food security in the state.