The Cross River House of Assembly at the plenary on Wednesday passed through second reading a Bill seeking to establish the Cross River State Irrigation and Dams Authority .
The bill which seeks to conceptualize, design, procure, construct, manage and regulate dams and reservoirs will provide equitable and sustainable development of water resources as well as regulating its use, management and conservation.
The proposed legislation sponsored by the member representing Yala 1 State Constituency, Hon. Brian Odey and co-sponsored by nine others was presented for second reading during plenary on Wednesday April 2, 2025. When put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Rt Hon. Elvert Ayambem who presided over the session, it was supported by the lawmakers and passed.
State Irrigation and Dams Authorities are crucial for boosting agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and promoting rural development by managing water resources, developing irrigation infrastructure, providing technical support to farmers and job opportunities. It will also play a vital role in ensuring farmers have reliable access to water, especially during dry seasons, which is critical for crop cultivation.
The bill demonstrates Hon Brian’s determined efforts to promote irrigation, dams management, boost agricultural development and create jobs for our teeming unemployed youths in Cross River State.
