Management of Smallholder Irrigation Schemes for Dry-Season Vegetable Production in Kano State, North West Nigeria

Smallholder irrigation schemes represent a significant public investment supporting year-round vegetable production in semi-arid environments. Effective management of these schemes is critical to their productivity, sustainability, and equitable water distribution outcomes. In Kano State, management deficiencies in publicly developed smallholder irrigation schemes have been persistently reported. This study examined the management of smallholder irrigation schemes for dry-season vegetable production in Kano State. A structured assessment was conducted across 12 smallholder irrigation scheme sites in three local government areas, involving scheme managers, water users' association leaders, and 55 vegetable farming beneficiaries. Data captured governance structures, water scheduling adherence, maintenance practices, and vegetable production outcomes. Management performance indices and regression analysis were applied. Results indicated that schemes with functional and democratically constituted water users' associations achieved significantly higher water use efficiency and lower water conflict incidence. Schemes under direct government management showed lower farmer satisfaction and higher frequency of system breakdowns. Dry-season vegetable yields per unit area were 38 percent higher on well-managed schemes compared to poorly managed ones. The study recommends devolving scheme management to farmer-led water users' associations supported by government technical oversight. Dedicated maintenance funding and capacity building for water users' association governance are critical priorities. Keywords: irrigation management, smallholder schemes, vegetable production, Kano State, water users' associations.