In response to recent flooding in Maiduguri and other regions, the Nigerian Federal Executive Council has set up a committee to evaluate the structural nature of the Alau Dam in Borno State, along with other dams across the country. This initiative aims to assess the damages and make detailed recommendations for reconstruction and future usage to prevent further disasters.
The decision came after a Council meeting led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engineer Joseph Terleum Utsev, highlighted the government’s concerns over frequent flooding in Maiduguri. He pointed out that the 38-year-old Alau Dam has long required repairs. In 2022, the Ministry of Water Resources had sought additional funding from the National Assembly and support from the Borno State government to address critical issues in the dam’s structure.
Minister Utsev emphasized that the newly established committee, which includes representatives from key ministries such as Finance, Agriculture, and Water Resources, will reevaluate the dam’s current condition. Their goal is to recommend a comprehensive plan to restore the dam’s functionality, ensuring it supports water supply, irrigation, and effective flood control in the region.
Additionally, Utsev addressed concerns surrounding the release of water from Cameroon’s Lagdo Dam, urging residents living in river valleys to heed warnings and prepare for possible flooding. The government’s proactive approach highlights its commitment to mitigating future flood risks and securing vital infrastructure for Nigeria’s water management.
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