Assessment of Irrigation Water Management on Dry Season Vegetable Farms in Jigawa State

Dry season vegetable production under irrigation is an important income-generating activity for farming households in Jigawa State, in Nigeria's North West geopolitical zone, where limited rainfall restricts rainy season cropping windows. However, inefficient irrigation water management practices contribute to water wastage, soil degradation, and increased production costs. This study assesses current irrigation water management practices and their effects on vegetable yield and cost efficiency on dry season farms in Jigawa State. A sample of 120 vegetable farmers practicing irrigation was selected across three local government areas. Data on water source type, application frequency, volume estimates, crop types, and yield were collected through structured interviews and field observations. Descriptive statistics, water use efficiency ratios, and gross margin analysis were used for data assessment. Results indicate that the majority of farmers (74 percent) rely on surface canal irrigation with bucket application, which is associated with significant over-application and waterlogging in heavy soils. Treadle pump users reported 28 percent lower water costs and higher net margins than bucket irrigation users. Only 9 percent of respondents used drip or furrow irrigation. Vegetable yield was highest among farmers who irrigated every three days rather than daily, suggesting over-irrigation is a prevalent yield-limiting practice. The study recommends dissemination of irrigation scheduling guidelines and promotion of treadle pump technology through state extension services in Jigawa. Keywords: irrigation, water management, dry season vegetables, Jigawa State, water use efficiency