Olam Agri, a leading agribusiness firm, has unveiled a new water project aimed at improving food security and supporting Nigeria’s rural water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives.
Project Overview
The company announced the inauguration and handover of safe water projects in Kano and Jigawa States. The initiative includes the construction of three new hand pump boreholes, the rehabilitation of seven existing ones, and the installation of one solar-powered borehole.
Partnership and Impact
This project, conducted in partnership with the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation, a UNICEF partner, is part of Olam Agri’s ‘Seeds for the Future’ program. The initiative is designed to provide clean, drinkable water to farming communities, which will enhance food security, increase agricultural productivity, and reduce waterborne diseases.
Community Reach
The project will benefit 15 communities, impacting approximately 34,150 residents and 1,684 farmers in Jigawa, Kano, Nasarawa, Benue, and Plateau States—key regions for wheat, sesame, and rice production.
Corporate Responsibility
Anil Nair, Managing Director of Olam Agri in Nigeria, emphasized that the Safe Water Project aligns with the company’s broader corporate responsibility and sustainability goals. With a budget of around N6.5 billion, the project is part of Olam Agri’s ongoing commitment to socio-economic development in Nigeria, where the company has been active for over 34 years.
Sustainability and Training
To ensure the long-term sustainability of the project, local community members have been trained as area mechanics to maintain the water facilities. This training not only secures the water infrastructure but also provides a new source of income for the community, promoting economic growth.
Survey Insights
In 2023, Olam Agri’s Global CR&S conducted a food security baseline survey in Nigeria’s sourcing regions, revealing significant challenges in accessing clean drinking water, especially in the northern regions.
