The federal government has begun the reconstruction of the Alau Dam in Borno state.
Floods in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state, killed over 30 people and displaced 400,000 on September 9, as a result of the dam’s collapse.
On February 4, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved N80 billion for the dam’s reconstruction and rehabilitation.
Speaking at the flag-off event in Maiduguri on Saturday, Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, said the project reflects the Bola Tinubu administration’s renewed hope program.
“The occasion of today will not be compete without expressing my humble and deep gratitude to our amiable visionary leader His excellency Presudent Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for making this event a reality,” Utsev said.
The minister stated that the project was approved on the proposal of a technical committee established to investigate the integrity of dams around the country.
Utsev stated that the project, which will be completed within 24 months, will be divided into two phases: the first will run from March to September 2025 and will address the state’s urgent flood risk.
He noted that the second phase, which will begin in October and run until the rehabilitation is completed, will focus on comprehensive desilting and structural upgrading to maintain the dam’s long-term functionality.
“I wish to appeal to your excellency the executive governor of Borno, Babagana Zulum, and the people of the state to support the contractors who will be with you on behalf of the federal government of Nigeria throughout the period of timehis project,” the minister added.
Also speaking, Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno, stated that the project represents more than just the rehabilitation of a physical edifice, but the revitalisation of hope and prosperity for the state’s residents.
He urged the federal government to consider operating the proposed project phases concurrently, citing the importance of desilting in dam reconstruction.
