The Nigerian Government has announced plans to immediately begin upgrading the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State.
This initiative was confirmed in a press statement released on Thursday, signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation Funmi Imuetinyan.
The statement outlined that the upgrade aims to address ongoing challenges related to the dam’s overflow and to provide a long-term solution to the region’s recurring flood disasters. The commitment was made by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, during a visit to Maiduguri on Thursday, accompanied by the Minister of State, Bello Goronyo.
The ministerial delegation, which included technical directors, water experts, heads of agencies, and senior government officials, conducted a thorough assessment of recent floods. These floods have displaced residents, submerged farmlands and homes, and disrupted economic activities across Maiduguri.
Utsev assured that a team of experts from the ministry is already on-site in Borno State, conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the Alau Dam. This assessment will help determine the current condition of the dam and recommend necessary actions to enhance its capacity.
“We are committed to a thorough overhaul of this critical infrastructure,” Utsev stated. “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.”
In addition to the dam upgrade, Utsev promised coordinated efforts to curb waterborne diseases in collaboration with the state government. The ministry will also provide sanitation kits and water treatment facilities to displaced persons as part of its immediate intervention.
Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, expressed gratitude to the ministers and their team for their prompt response and support during this challenging period. He emphasized the importance of conducting a detailed study of the dam to assess its capacity, establish hydraulic structures, and improve flood forecasting systems.
Zulum also highlighted the urgent need to address desertification and invest in clean energy and irrigation systems to combat the growing impacts of climate change.
