Problems and constraints of small-scale irrigation (Fadama) in Nigeria

Small-scale irrigation "Fadama" plays a key role in the economics of Nigeria as a basic source of food, income, and employment, especially for women in the "slack" period of rainfed agriculture. A study was undertaken to assess the practice of Fadama irrigation in Oyo and Osun states of Nigeria with a view to better understand the characteristic problems and needs. This paper reports on some general information on Fadama irrigation that are useful to project planners and assisting agencies. Fadama irrigation practice has increased significantly over the last 10 years because of increasing demand and high cost of vegetables produced by farmers. The majority of farmers are assisted by World Bank funded States Agricultural Development Program (ADP) through the provision of pumps and irrigation infrastructure. Farmers lack adequate start up capital and are frequently faced with irregular fuel supply, frequent pump breakdown, low stream flow, and well dry ups. Those using the furrow system also complained of high labor requirement and there is stiff competition for the limited lands around the major perennial streams in the area. The majority of farmers are illiterate and lack basic knowledge of water requirement, irrigation scheduling, and skills in maintaining and operating the pumps. This affects the yield of crops as the crops are either over- or under-irrigated, leading to wastage of the little available water. Erosion is a serious problem during the rainy season and coupled with continuous use of land, low fertility results. Recommendations are made that can enhance the farmers' productivity and increase their farm hectarage in order to meet the growing demand for their produce and make the practice attractive to women.