Did You Know? Nigeria Loses 40% of Farm Water to Poor Irrigation
Water is one of the most essential inputs in agriculture, yet it’s also one of the most mismanaged.
Across Nigeria, many farmers unknowingly lose a significant portion of their water before it ever reaches the crop root zone.
According to a 2024 FAO assessment, over 40% of farm water in Nigeria is wasted due to inefficient irrigation systems and poor watering practices.
This level of loss has serious consequences. When water is not applied correctly, crops experience unnecessary stress, resulting in reduced yield and inconsistent growth. Poor irrigation also weakens soil structure, washes away nutrients, and increases production costs without delivering better results. In the long run, these hidden losses directly affect farm profitability.
Fortunately, this challenge is preventable. Simple improvements can make a substantial difference.
Drip irrigation, for example, delivers water directly to plant roots, greatly reducing evaporation. Timed irrigation schedules ensure that crops receive moisture when they need it most, especially during early mornings or late evenings. Even repairing leaking hoses or switching to solar-powered pumps can noticeably improve water efficiency on the farm.
As Nigeria continues to face fluctuating rainfall patterns and longer dry seasons, understanding how to conserve water is no longer optional it’s a key part of sustainable farming.
When farmers manage water wisely, they protect their crops, reduce waste, and strengthen their long-term productivity.
Nigeria loses over 40% of farm water to poor irrigation. Improving your system could change your entire harvest.
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