By Eval Asikong
A cornerstone of Governor Bassey Otu’s agricultural revolution in Cross River State is his strategic investment in irrigation infrastructure, which has transformed the farming calendar and dramatically increased crop yields. The Cross River State-Wide Irrigation Infrastructure Development Project (CRSWIID) is recognized as a game-changer for local agriculture, enabling year-round cultivation and mitigating the harsh effects of climate variability on farming.
Previously, farmers were largely dependent on rain-fed agriculture, which subjected crop production to erratic weather patterns, causing seasonal hunger and income uncertainty. Governor Otu’s irrigation schemes provide a reliable, sustained water supply critical for stable growth of staple and cash crops during dry seasons. This predictability not only increases output but also diversifies cropping schedules and income streams for farmers.
CRSWIID encompasses the construction of extended irrigation canals, water harvesting facilities, and community-managed water distribution systems. These infrastructure investments enable efficient water use and ensure equitable access, fostering strong local ownership and sustainability. In tandem with equipment such as pumps and storage reservoirs, the project supports cultivation of rice, vegetables, fruits, and cereals under controlled irrigation systems.
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In addition to infrastructure, the governor has emphasized training farmers on best irrigation practices, water management, and maintenance to optimize benefits and minimize environmental impacts. The government collaborates with extension workers and agronomists to introduce water-saving technologies that increase water-use efficiency and crop resilience.
The social and economic outcomes of expanded irrigation are impressive. Farmers report increased yields, reduced risks of crop failure, improved nutrition, and augmented incomes. The irrigation project has enabled more women and youth to engage in market gardening and high-value crop production, broadening participation and reducing rural poverty.
Governor Otu’s investment in irrigation also supports the state’s broader food security agenda, ensuring consistent production of staples such as rice, maize, and vegetables—critical to feeding a growing population while creating surplus for market sale and export. The year-round production capacity enhances Cross River’s reputation as a reliable agricultural supplier nationally.
Summarizing, Governor Otu’s irrigation investments have revolutionized agricultural productivity and resilience in Cross River. By transforming the traditional rain-dependent farming system into a modern, irrigated, and climate-resilient industry, his administration lays the groundwork for sustainable growth, income stability, and enhanced livelihoods.
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