FG begins reconstruction of Alau Dam in Borno
The Federal Government, on Saturday, commenced the reconstruction of Alau dam in Borno State which collapsed on September 10, 2024, leading to unprecedented flooding of Maiduguri, the state capital, and massive damage to properties and infrastructure.
The dam’s restoration and rehabilitation was flagged off by Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who said the project will be executed in two phases.
“The project work is structured in two phases over a completion period of 24 months,” Prof Utsev said, adding that phase one will be executed between February and September 2025 to cover the critical interventions to mitigate immediate flood risks, while phase two will commence in October.
He explained that the second phase would focus on extensive disilting and structural enhancements to ensure long-term functionality and resilience of the dam.
“It is evident that the reconstruction and upgrade of Alau Dam will significantly enhance the provision of potable drinking water, support downstream irrigation, boost socio-economic activities and enable flood control while facilitating other viable socio-economic activities capable of revamping people’s livelihoods and economic development,” the minister said.
In his speech, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, said the reconstruction of the dam will restore the dignity and livelihoods of thousands of people in the state.
“This groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding Borno State, not just in terms of physical infrastructure, but in restoring the livelihoods and dignity of our citizens,” Zulum said.
“We understand that sustainable development is inextricably linked to the availability of water resources, and the Alau Dam is crucial in this regard.
“The restoration and rehabilitation of this dam will bring numerous benefits to our people.
“This project will significantly improve irrigation capacity, enabling our farmers to cultivate more land and increase their yields. This will boost food security, create employment opportunities and contribute to the overall economic development of the state.”
The governor appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the repair of the dam within short time.
He announced that the state government has approved the construction of a primary school and hospital in Alau to enhance the development of the area.
The Vice Chairman Senate Committees on Water and Sanitation, Senator Eze Ken Emeka, and that the Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Water and Sanitation, Hon. Sada Soli Jibia, attended the occasion.
Also present were the Senator representing Borno Central, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, and other traditional rulers.
