FG Begins Upgrade of Alau Dam to Prevent Flooding in Borno

The Federal Government has announced the immediate commencement of upgrading the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State.

This was disclosed in a press statement issued on Thursday by Funmi Imuetinyan, the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.

The upgrade is part of efforts to address the recurring flood disasters caused by the dam’s overflow and provide a permanent solution to the region’s flood challenges. “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,” the statement noted.

Prof. Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, made this commitment during a visit to Maiduguri alongside the Minister of State, Bello Goronyo, on Thursday.

The ministerial delegation, which included technical directors, water experts, heads of agencies, and senior government officials, carried out a comprehensive assessment of the recent floods that have displaced residents, submerged farmlands and homes, and disrupted economic activities in Maiduguri.

Utsev assured that a team of experts from the ministry is already on-site conducting a thorough evaluation of the Alau Dam to determine its current condition and recommend swift action to enhance its capacity.

“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,” he emphasized.

Commitment to Overhaul Critical Infrastructure

Utsev emphasized the government’s commitment to upgrading the dam, warning that poor performance by contractors or officials would not be tolerated.

“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 warned.

In addition to upgrading the dam, Utsev reassured the public that coordinated efforts would be made to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases in collaboration with the state government.

Sanitation kits and water treatment facilities will be provided to displaced persons as part of the ministry’s immediate intervention.

Borno State’s Response and Future Planning

Prof. Babagana Zulum, the Governor of Borno State, thanked the ministers and their team for their swift response and support during this critical period.

He stressed the need for a detailed study of the dam’s capacity and the establishment of hydraulic structures to enhance flood forecasting systems. Zulum also highlighted the importance of addressing desertification and investing in clean energy and irrigation systems to combat the increasing effects of climate change.

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