By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has emphasised that the reconstruction of the Alau Dam will restore the dignity and livelihoods of the people of Borno, who were severely impacted by the devastating flood disaster of 2024.
The Alau Dam collapsed on September 10, 2024, causing catastrophic flooding that killed at least several people and displaced thousands. The dam was built between 1984 and 1986. It stored water from the Ngadda River, a Lake Chad tributary, mainly used for irrigation and as a tap water source within Maiduguri and its environs.
The Governor stated this on Saturday during the groundbreaking ceremony for the restoration and rehabilitation of the Alau Dam by the federal government.
The event took place at the Alau community in Jere Local Government Area.
Governor Zulum outlined several key benefits the people of Borno will gain from the rehabilitation of the dam, including enhanced agricultural activities, improved water supply, flood control, economic diversification, and community empowerment.
“This groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding Borno State, not just in terms of physical infrastructure, but in restoring the livelihoods and dignity of our citizens.
“We understand that sustainable development is inextricably linked to the availability of water resources, and the Alau Dam is crucial in this regard.
“The restoration and rehabilitation of this dam will bring numerous benefits to our people.”
“Enhanced Agricultural Productivity along the dams: This will significantly improve irrigation capacity, enabling our farmers to cultivate more land and increase their yields. And will boost food security, create employment opportunities and contribute to the overall economic development of the state.” Gov. Emphasized.
He acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the repair of the dam within short period of time.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who was the special guest of honour at the groundbreaking ceremony stated that the rehabilitation will be conducted in two phases.
According to the minister, when completed, the Alau Dam will enhance the provision of drinking water and revamp agricultural activities for thousands of people around the facility.
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