The Dry Season Rice Farmers in Kebbi State have praised the leadership style of the Managing Director of the Sokoto Rima Basin Development Authority, Alhaji Abubakar Gari Malam, popularly known as Shattiman Gwandu, for his swift response to their concerns over the perennial low water levels from the Goronyo Dam.
The farmers expressed their appreciation during the Chairman’s visit to several affected rice fields in Gazawa, Indiya, Tura, and Farfajiya. They highlighted how his timely intervention has brought hope to their farming activities, which were threatened by the inadequate water supply.
Speaking during the visit, Shattiman Gwandu said his organization had received formal complaints about the water shortage. In response, he immediately summoned all technical officers to visit the sites and assess the situation firsthand, with the goal of finding a lasting solution.
He reassured the farmers not to panic, stating that he had already instructed the management of Goronyo Dam to release more water to alleviate the hardship being faced. He further emphasized that the Sokoto Rima Basin Development Authority is committed not only to supporting dry season farming but also to ensuring adequate potable water supply for communities across Sokoto. He added that the Authority also supports cattle herders and fish farming across Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi States.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Kebbi State Rice Farmers Association, Alhaji Yusuf Gabi Argungu, commended Shattiman Gwandu for his prompt action, noting that it was the first time officials from the Authority had visited them in such a comprehensive manner. He pledged the continued support of his members to both the Federal and State Governments under the leadership of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Governor Comrade Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu.
Other speakers, including Alhaji Nasiru Abubakar and Malam Basiru Galadima, also thanked the officials of the Sokoto Rima Basin Development Authority for their quick response in addressing the water crisis.
