Problems of water resource and approaches for revamping the agricultural sector of Nigeria

Population and economic growth are putting pressure on available fresh water resources worldwide. Uncertain water availability is a challenge that many countries face, which can impact economic growth and agricultural development. This ‘water challenge’, and its links to economic growth, has multiple dimensions, one of which is access to safe drinking water and water suitable for irrigation purpose This paper discusses some of the challenges of water resources development in Nigeria and strategies to transform the agricultural sector of the Nigerian economy through irrigation water. The traditional methods of water exploitation in Nigeria consist of (1) direct collection of rain water with pots, guards and other containers and (2) extraction from springs, streams, ponds and wells. The effects of water challenges are; Health, Hunger, Education and Poverty. Some major areas in which management development and training will be greatly required are; Agricultural development planning; organizing and managing production and service; resource management; maintenance management; organizing supplies and distribution; produce storage and processing; research - extension – farmer linkage; and management of cooperatives