The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has commenced the reconstruction and upgrade of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to enhancing water resource infrastructure, mitigating flood risks, and fostering economic development in the region.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Maiduguri, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, emphasized that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reaffirming the administration’s dedication to the safety and well-being of Nigerians.
A statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Information and PR, Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, highlighted that the devastating flood of September 10, 2024, which severely impacted Maiduguri and surrounding communities, necessitated urgent intervention by the Federal Government.
Following an extensive assessment by the Technical Committee on Evaluation of Dams, President Tinubu approved ₦80 billion for the complete reconstruction and upgrade of the Alau Dam.
Project Phases and Scope
The Minister outlined that the project will be executed in two phases over 24 months.
Phase One (March – September 2025): Immediate flood mitigation measures.
Phase Two (October 2025 – March 2027): Extensive desilting and structural enhancements to ensure long-term resilience.
Prof. Utsev assured the people of Borno State of the ministry’s unwavering support in implementing the project, urging contractors and engineers to adhere to the highest standards of quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.
“This project is crucial to restoring hope and security in Borno State,” he said, calling on all stakeholders to remain committed to its success.
The Minister also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Senator Abubakar Kyari for their efforts in making the project a reality.
Borno Governor Commends FG
In his remarks, Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for prioritizing the state’s infrastructural needs.
He highlighted the socio-economic benefits of the project, including potable water supply, irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation.
“This project signifies not just the repair of a physical structure but the revitalization of hope and prosperity for our people. The groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to Borno State—not just in infrastructure but in restoring livelihoods and dignity,” Governor Zulum stated.
He pledged the state government’s full support for the project’s execution and urged for both phases to be implemented concurrently to expedite critical waterway desilting.
Technical Aspects of the Project
Providing insights into the reconstruction, Engr. Ali Dallah, Director of Dams and Reservoir Operations, outlined the key components, which include:
Reconstruction of dykes 1A and 1B as a single dam with a new auxiliary spillway.
Construction of a new intake structure and expansion of penstock pipes for multiple uses.
Rehabilitation of dykes 1C, 2, and 3, along with replacement of control gates.
Implementation of comprehensive safety management and training programs.
The ceremony featured goodwill messages from Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Kenneth Eze, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Water Resources, and Rt. Hon. Sada Soli, Chairman of the House Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation.
In his vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, lauded President Tinubu for approving funds for the project and commended Minister Utsev, Governor Zulum, National Assembly members, the Shehu of Borno, engineers, and project consultants for their dedication and collaboration.
The highlight of the event was the official flag-off of the reconstruction by Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, in the presence of dignitaries, contractors, engineers, community leaders, and residents.
