President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reconstitution of the executive management teams for the 12 River Basin Development Authorities under the Federal Ministry of Water Resources. The appointments, totaling 72 individuals—six for each authority—are expected to boost operational efficiency and support the administration’s mission to enhance the lives of Nigerians.

The announcement was made in a statement by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday.

Strengthening Water Resource Management

The River Basin Development Authorities play a crucial role in managing Nigeria’s water resources and promoting agricultural development. President Tinubu expressed optimism that the newly constituted teams would bring their expertise to transform the authorities into efficient, result-driven organizations.

“These appointees will use their wealth of experience to bolster efficiency in the operations of the River Basin Development Authorities, aligning with the administration’s vision to improve the lives of Nigerians,” Tinubu stated.

Full List of Appointees

The reconstituted management teams for each River Basin Development Authority include:

Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (Abeokuta)

• Chairman: Hon. Odebunmi Olusegun (Oyo)
• Managing Director: Engr. Dr. Adedeji Ashiru (Osun)
• Executive Directors: Ayo Oyalowo (Finance – Oyo), Dokunmu Olufemi Oyekunle (Planning & Design – Ogun), Suleiman Oris (Agric Services – Lagos), Engr. Julius Oloro (Engineering – Lagos).

Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority (Yola)

• Chairman: Alh. Sanusi Mohammed Babantanko (Bauchi)
• Managing Director: Samuel Mahmud Mohammed (Taraba)
• Executive Directors: Hon. Usman Babandubu Bakare (Engineering – Taraba), Ibrahim Dasuki Jalo (Finance – Gombe), Hon. Isa Matori (Planning & Design – Bauchi), Hamman Dikko (Agric Services – Adamawa).

Chad Basin Development Authority (Maiduguri)

• Chairman: Prof. Abdu Dauda (Borno)
• Managing Director: Tijjani Musa Tumsa (Yobe)
• Executive Directors: Barr. Bashir Baale (Finance – Yobe), Iliyasu Muazu (Agric Services – Adamawa), Engr. Mohammed Shetima (Engineering – Borno), Vrati Nzonzo (Planning & Design – Borno).

(Full details of appointees can be accessed via the Federal Ministry of Water Resources portal.)

Strategic Objectives of the Reconstitution

The reconstitution of the River Basin Development Authorities is part of the administration’s efforts to address challenges in water resource management, agricultural productivity, and regional infrastructure. Key objectives include:

1. Enhancing Agricultural Productivity: Boosting irrigation and food production to ensure food security.
2. Improving Water Resource Management: Developing sustainable solutions for water supply in both rural and urban areas.
3. Advancing Regional Infrastructure: Expanding infrastructure to support economic growth and social development.

Expected Impact on Nigeria’s Development

Regional Development

The appointments aim to ensure inclusivity and tailored solutions for regional challenges, with representatives from across Nigeria.

Economic Growth

Efficient water and agricultural resource management will stimulate economic activities, creating jobs and reducing unemployment.

Environmental Sustainability

The focus on sustainable water management will address environmental concerns while meeting growing demands.

Conclusion

President Tinubu’s reconstitution of the River Basin Development Authorities reflects a commitment to enhancing efficiency and delivering impactful governance. These appointments are expected to drive significant improvements in water resource management, agricultural growth, and regional infrastructure development, aligning with Nigeria’s broader economic and social goals.