The Federal Government has announced plans to begin the immediate upgrade of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State, in a bid to address persistent flooding issues in the region.
This was disclosed in a press statement signed by Funmi Imuetinyan, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, on Thursday.
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According to the statement, the upgrade aims to tackle the recurring flood disasters caused by the dam’s overflow and provide a permanent solution. The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, made this commitment during a visit to Maiduguri, accompanied by the Minister of State, Bello Goronyo.
The delegation, which included technical directors, water experts, agency heads, and senior government officials, assessed the recent floods that displaced residents, submerged farmlands and homes, and disrupted economic activities in the area.
Utsev assured the public that a team of experts is already on-site conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the dam’s current condition to recommend swift action to enhance its capacity.
“We are committed to a thorough overhaul of this critical infrastructure. The Alau Dam upgrade is non-negotiable, and any poor performance by contractors or officials involved will not go unpunished. Sanctions will be enforced for any delays or substandard work,” Utsev emphasized.
He also noted that efforts would be made in collaboration with the state government to curb the spread of waterborne diseases. Sanitation kits and water treatment facilities would be provided to displaced persons as part of the ministry’s immediate intervention.
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, expressed gratitude for the federal government’s swift response. He stressed the need for a detailed study of the dam’s capacity, establishment of hydraulic structures, and improved flood forecasting systems.
Zulum also highlighted the importance of addressing desertification and investing in clean energy and irrigation systems to mitigate the effects of climate change.
