‘Alau Dam Rehabilitation Not Progressing’, Zulum, Shehu of Borno Cry Out
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum and the Shehu of Borno, Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, have expressed concern over the state of the Alau dam rehabilitation by the Federal Government.
They said that the rehabilitation work is not progressing since its official flag off on March 1, 2025 by the Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev.
The Syndicate reports that the dam, which provides potable water to Maiduguri, the state capital, collapsed in 2024 leading to massive flooding, deaths and damage to properties and infrastructure.
However, about four months into the N80 billion rehabilitation project, the Federal Government has done nothing to raise the confidence of residents.
Both the Shehu and Governor Zulum made the observation during the traditional Sallah homage at the Government House in Maiduguri.
El-Kanemi raised the issue, urging the governor to intervene so that the Federal Government would fast tract the project.
He emphasised the importance of expediting the Alau Dam project, noting that the first phase should have been completed by now.
The Shehu made reference to the recent flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, as a warning of what could recur in Borno if swift action is not taken.
“We witnessed the catastrophic flooding in Maiduguri on 10th September 2024, and we do not want a repeat. The Federal Government must act immediately.”
The royal father also urged the governor to follow up with the Federal Government on oil exploration in Tuba, road rehabilitation, and electricity connectivity in local government areas.
Responding, Zulum expressed concern over the slow pace of work, warning that the rainy season has already begun.
“After the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction and expansion of the dam, which we all attended, the truth is that the work is not progressing as expected,” Governor Zulum stated.
“The last time I visited the President, I informed him about the true state of the project, and I assure you that I will not relent. I will continue to follow up, and I have also notified the Vice President as well. In the meantime, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) has constituted a committee to provide immediate intervention at the dam,” he added.
Meanwhile, Governor Zulum has pledged to connect all local government headquarters in the state to the national grid before the end of his tenure.
He also promised massive road rehabilitation once the Pulka quarry plant becomes fully operational.
“These are two critical issues dear to me, he said. I assure Your Royal Highness that all local government headquarters will be connected to electricity before my tenure expires, Insha Allah.
“Regarding road infrastructure, insecurity has been a major challenge, but we remain committed. We have procured 40 brand-new Howo tipper trucks, and once the Pulka quarry plant is completed, we will embark on extensive road rehabilitation across the state.”
