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Borno, Nigeria (NAN) - The federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has officially initiated the reconstruction and enhancement of the Alau Dam in Borno State, with a budget of ₦80 billion.
Originally constructed between 1984 and 1986, the dam collapsed on September 10, 2024, due to severe flooding, resulting in the displacement of thousands and interruptions to agriculture and water supply.
Following the disaster, President Bola Tinubu authorized an ₦80 billion intervention fund based on the suggestions of a high-level technical committee spearheaded by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, which was tasked with evaluating dam infrastructure across the nation.
During the groundbreaking ceremony held on Saturday at Alau, Utsev underscored that the dam's reconstruction and upgrade would significantly improve water supply, flood management, and agricultural productivity in Borno State.
“This is not simply another infrastructure project. This is a direct response to the catastrophic floods of 2024 and a demonstration of the federal government’s steadfast commitment to the welfare and prosperity of Nigerians, especially the residents of Borno State, Utsev stated.
He further clarified that prior to its collapse, the Alau Dam was crucial in providing irrigation for numerous hectares of farmland and offering potable water to Maiduguri and its surroundings.
He acknowledged that years of neglect, the impacts of climate change, and rising demand had diminished its effectiveness.
The minister revealed that the reconstruction would be carried out in two phases over 24 months, aiming to deliver immediate relief and establish long-term resilience.
"Phase one, which will commence between March and September 2025, will prioritize urgent measures to reduce flood risks and restore the dam’s fundamental infrastructure. Phase two, expected to start in October 2025 and extend until 2027, will concentrate on comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrades, including desilting, structural reinforcements, and expanding irrigation channels to promote sustainable agriculture and water supply,” he explained.
Utsev assured that the project would be implemented transparently, adhering to strict quality and safety standards.
In his address, Governor Babagana Zulum praised the federal government’s rapid response, describing the reconstruction as a crucial step towards rebuilding lives, stimulating the local economy, and ensuring lasting food security.
“This groundbreaking ceremony symbolizes the government’s unwavering resolve not only to reconstruct physical infrastructure but also to restore the livelihoods and dignity of our citizens,” Zulum remarked.
He pointed out that the dam’s collapse had significantly impacted farmers, herders, and families in the state, making its reconstruction vital for food security, economic stability, and water access. While acknowledging the division of the project into two phases, he urged for both phases to be executed simultaneously, stressing the urgent need to tackle the silting issue in the water basin.
He also commended Tinubu’s administration for its post-flood relief measures, which included deploying 200 trucks of food grains, aiding in stabilizing affected areas. M
Zulum announced the approval for constructing a primary school and a hospital in the Alau community, stating, “I have authorized the construction of a primary school and hospital for the Alau community to ensure comprehensive development of the area.”
He called on the residents of Alau and nearby communities to cooperate with contractors and support the successful execution of the project.
Also addressing the gathering, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, highlighted the importance of expanding irrigation systems alongside the dam reconstruction to improve dry-season farming and enhance food production.
He urged the Ministry of Water Resources to integrate irrigation infrastructure into the project, adding that his ministry was prepared to collaborate with the Borno government to assist farmers in utilizing the fertile lands around Alau Dam.
The groundbreaking ceremony attracted numerous dignitaries, including Senator Abdulaziz Yari, represented by Senator Ken Emeka, and Senator Sada Soli, chairpersons of the Senate and House Committees on Water and Sanitation. Other notable attendees included Senator Kaka Shehu, representing Borno Central; the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn El-Kanemi; and various other high-ranking government officials.
