The Federal Government has officially commenced the reconstruction and upgrade of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Performing the flag-off ceremony at the dam site, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, FNSE, described the initiative as a direct response to the devastating September 10, 2024, flood that impacted Maiduguri and surrounding communities.
He noted that following a comprehensive technical assessment of dams nationwide, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved ₦80 billion for the project’s execution.
“The Alau Dam reconstruction aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, reaffirming his commitment to the safety and well-being of Nigerians,” Prof. Utsev stated.
According to the Minister, the project will be executed in two phases over 24 months, with the first phase, running from March to September 2025, focusing on urgent flood mitigation measures, while the second phase, spanning October 2025 to March 2027, will involve extensive desilting and structural reinforcements to ensure long-term resilience.
He urged the contractors and engineers to uphold the highest standards of quality and environmental stewardship, emphasizing that the project represents a significant step toward restoring security and economic stability in Borno State.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, mni, expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for prioritizing Borno’s needs, highlighting the socio-economic benefits of the upgraded dam, including potable water supply, irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation.
“This is more than just the repair of a physical structure; it is the revitalization of hope and prosperity for our people,” Governor Zulum said.
The event also featured goodwill messages from key stakeholders, including the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari; Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Water Resources, Senator Kenneth Eze; and Chairman of the House Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation, Rt. Hon. Sada Soli.
Providing technical insights, Engr. Ali Dallah, Director of Dams and Reservoir Operations at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, detailed the project’s scope.
The upgrade will include reconstructing dykes, installing a new auxiliary spillway, expanding penstock pipes for multiple uses, rehabilitating control structures, and implementing a comprehensive safety management and training program.
The high point of the event was the official flag-off by Prof. Utsev, witnessed by top government officials, community leaders, project engineers, and residents.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, in his vote of thanks, acknowledged President Tinubu’s leadership in approving the project and commended the collaboration between the Ministry, the Borno State Government, the National Assembly, and all stakeholders involved.
