KANO, June 17, 2026 – Efforts to improve agricultural productivity and climate-resilient farming received a boost as the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) launched an initiative aimed at helping irrigation farmers access financing for solar-powered irrigation systems.
The initiative was unveiled during a two-day demand-supply linkage workshop and field demonstration programme on solar-based irrigation systems held in Kano.
Speaking at the event, IWMI Senior Regional Researcher, Oke Adebayo, explained that the programme was created to strengthen collaboration among farmers, equipment vendors, and financial institutions, making modern irrigation technology more accessible to smallholder producers.
According to him, the project is being implemented in Kano, Jigawa, and Gombe states to address one of the major obstacles facing irrigation farmers—limited access to affordable funding for irrigation equipment.
Adebayo noted that the engagement was designed to identify and remove barriers hindering the acquisition of irrigation technologies while encouraging the wider adoption of innovative farming solutions across Nigeria.
He explained that stakeholders have been working for years to expand the use of solar-powered irrigation systems, particularly as farmers grapple with the effects of climate change and the rising cost of fuel used for water pumping and other agricultural activities.
He added that many farmers struggle with the high operational costs associated with dry-season farming, making alternative energy solutions increasingly important.
According to him, solar-powered irrigation offers farmers an opportunity to reduce production costs, improve efficiency in water management, and adopt environmentally friendly methods that can enhance crop yields.
Also speaking, IFPRI Country Director, Dr. Oliver Kirui, said the workshop brought together key stakeholders, including farmers, suppliers, financial institutions, government agencies, and technical experts, to create practical pathways for large-scale adoption of solar irrigation technologies.
Kirui said studies have shown that farmers recognise the benefits of solar-powered irrigation systems, but challenges remain in ensuring that equipment and financing options are available and affordable.
He noted that the workshop was designed to move beyond research discussions by fostering direct partnerships between those who need the technology and those capable of providing equipment, technical support, and financial services.
President of the Groundnut Association, Sadisu Ibrahim, praised the initiative, describing it as a positive step that could improve opportunities for small-scale farmers and strengthen agricultural production.
Representatives of irrigation equipment suppliers, including Farm World Technologies Limited, outlined the requirements farmers must meet to qualify for the acquisition of solar irrigation systems.
Officials from participating financial institutions also indicated their readiness to provide suitable financing packages to support interested farmers.
The event drew a wide range of participants, including farmers, researchers, agricultural professionals, academics, development partners, and government representatives, all focused on advancing sustainable irrigation practices and improving food production across the country.