By Nura Ridwan Ibrahim
The Nigeria Association of Hydrological Sciences (NAHS) has held its 15th National Conference and Annual General Meeting in Kano State, focusing on the theme “Water and Food Security in Changing Climate.”
The event, hosted by the Department of Geography, Bayero University, Kano (BUK), brought together researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners to discuss sustainable water management and agricultural resilience.
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Declaring the conference open, the Chief Host and Vice-Chancellor of BUK, Professor Haruna Musa, represented by Professor Kabiru Ɗahiru Abba, the University Librarian, commended the theme as timely and relevant, noting the increasing impact of climate change on water resources and agricultural productivity. He emphasized the need for research-based solutions to strengthen water supply systems and ensure national food self-sufficiency.
In his welcome address, the National President of NAHS, Engineer Professor O.D. Jimoh, urged governments at all levels to prioritize investments in hydrological data generation, water infrastructure, and irrigation systems as vital tools for sustainable development.
The conference chairman, Professor Mahrazu A. Yusuf, called for stronger collaboration between universities, government agencies, and the private sector to mitigate the adverse effects of climate variability on livelihoods.
Representing the Director-General of the Hadejia-Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, Dr. Idris Bala Barkun disclosed ongoing efforts to improve water storage, flood control, and irrigation projects in Northern Nigeria.
Also speaking, Kano State Commissioner for Water Resources, Alhaji Umar Haruna Doguwa, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to expanding water supply networks and supporting rural farming communities.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Adamu Idris Tanko, Vice-Chancellor of Baba-Ahmad University, Kano, highlighted the importance of innovative research and policy implementation in tackling climate-induced water challenges.
A lead paper presentation was delivered by Engineer Dr. Muslim Idris, Director-General of GAP Water Resources Consult, in honour of the late Emeritus Professor Lekan Oyebande, a pioneer in Nigerian hydrological sciences.
The conference also featured award presentations and fellowship conferments on distinguished members for their contributions to the field.
In his closing remarks, the Local Organising Committee Chairman and Head of the Department of Geography, BUK, Professor Tasi’u Yalwa Rilwanu, expressed appreciation to all participants for their commitment and contribution to the success of the event.
