The Federal Executive Council has approved N80bn for the immediate reconstruction and expansion of Alau Dam in Borno State, following its collapse in September 2024 due to heavy flooding.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, while briefing journalists after the 23rd Council meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja on Tuesday.
In September 2024, Maiduguri, Borno State suffered severe flooding after parts of the Alau Dam failed, affecting over 23,000 households and submerging key locations, including, the Shehu of Borno’s palace, The Borno State Secretariat, The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, The city’s cemetery and post office.
The floods were part of a broader crisis that saw 321 deaths, 20,845 injuries, and 1,374,557 displaced persons across 34 states in 2024.
Additionally, 250,800 hectares of farmlands were destroyed.
Following the Alau Dam collapse, FEC directed an integrity assessment of major dams nationwide.
A technical committee was set up during the 17th FEC meeting on September 23, 2024, chaired by the Minister of Water Resources, with representatives from, Finance Ministry, Works, Housing & Urban Development Ministry, Budget & Economic Planning Ministry, Office of the National Security Adviser and Ministry of Information.
The interim report presented to FEC on Tuesday, assessed 35 dams so far with more evaluations ongoing.
Prof. Utsev said the N80bn reconstruction and expansion projec for Alau Dam would be executed by Effect International Limited.
He confirmed that the Borno State Government and the Office of the National Security Adviser are collaborating to fast-track the project.
The first phase of the Alau Dam project is targeted for completion by July 2025 to prevent further flooding in Maiduguri.
Desilting activities will commence in December 2025 while The entire dam rehabilitation and expansion project will span 24 months.
The government also plans to utilise Alau Dam for multiple purposes, including, Water supply, Flood control, Irrigation and Fish farming.
Utsev assured Nigerians that subsequent reports on the remaining 34 dams under review would be presented to FEC and the public as assessments continue.
