The Federal Government has announced plans for immediate commencement of upgrading the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State.
This was disclosed in a press statement signed by the Director, Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Funmi Imuetinyan on Thursday.
The statement noted that the move is aimed at tackling the persistent challenges posed by the dam’s overflow and making a permanent solution to the recurring flood disasters in the region.
It said the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Joseph Utsev, made the commitment during his visit to Maiduguri, on Thursday alongside the Minister of State, Bello Goronyo.
The ministerial delegation, which included technical directors, water experts, heads of agencies, and senior government officials, carried out a thorough assessment of the recent floods, which displaced residents, submerged farmlands and homes, and disrupted economic activities across Maiduguri.
Utsev, however, assured that a team of experts from the ministry is already on-site in Borno State, conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the Alau Dam to assess its current condition and recommend swift action to enhance its capacity.
“We are committed to a thorough overhaul of this critical infrastructure. The Alau Dam upgrade is non-negotiable, and any poor performance by contractors or officials involved will not go unpunished. Sanctions will be enforced for any delays or substandard work,” he emphasised.
He further assured the public that alongside the dam upgrade, coordinated efforts would be made to curb the spread of waterborne diseases in collaboration with the state government.
Utsev said sanitation kits and water treatment facilities would be provided to displaced persons as part of the ministry’s immediate intervention.
On his part, the Governor of Borno State, Prof Babagana Zulum, thanked the ministers and their team for their swift response and support during this critical period.
He stressed the importance of conducting a detailed study of the dam to assess its capacity, establish hydraulic structures, and enhance flood forecasting systems.
Zulum also underscored the urgent need to address desertification and invest in clean energy and irrigation systems to combat the escalating impacts of climate change.
