The Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, has assured the Borno State Government of the swift commencement of rehabilitation and reconstruction work on the Alau Dam following the approval of funds by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
During a meeting in Abuja, Prof. Utsev engaged with a delegation from the Borno State Government to discuss the project’s execution.
The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, the Chairman and Members of the Technical Subcommittee on Evaluation of Dams in Nigeria, and the Acting Managing Director of the Chad Basin Development Authority.
Prof. Utsev explained that the meeting was convened following discussions with Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, to ensure a collaborative approach between the federal and state governments. The objective, he stated, is to develop a comprehensive template and recommendations that will guide the contractor for efficient execution of the project.
He further highlighted the ongoing work of the Interministerial Technical Committee on the Evaluation of Dams and Reservoirs, which was inaugurated by President Tinubu and is chaired by Prof. Utsev. The committee has so far assessed 35 dams nationwide and submitted an interim report, with a final report expected soon.
However, he emphasized that Alau Dam is a special case requiring urgent intervention, which is why the Federal Government prioritized its rehabilitation. He announced that President Tinubu has approved N80 billion for the project, ensuring that work begins immediately.
The rehabilitation of Alau Dam is expected to be completed within 24 months, with the first phase running from this month until July. The second phase is scheduled to commence in October. Prof. Utsev assured the Borno State Government of full federal participation to ensure the project is completed on time.
He expressed optimism that once completed, Alau Dam will significantly boost irrigation farming in Borno State, enhance hydropower generation in the North East, and contribute to the region’s economic and social development.
He also urged the Borno State Government to ensure adequate security at the project site to facilitate smooth and uninterrupted execution.
Speaking at the meeting, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, emphasized that strong collaboration between the federal and state governments is crucial for the project’s success.
In response, Engr. Tijani Goni, Borno State Commissioner for Water Resources and leader of the state delegation, commended Prof. Utsev for his commitment to the project. He described him as a man of his word and expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of Borno State.
He reassured the Minister that the Borno State Government will provide full security at the project site and cooperate with the contractor to ensure timely completion.
“We remain grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Professor Utsev for prioritizing this project, which will bring immense benefits to our people,” Engr. Goni stated.
