By Fatima Saka
In light of the recent catastrophic floods in the Northeastern region of Nigeria, following President Tinubu’s directives, an Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee was inaugurated on Tuesday in Abuja to evaluate dams across the country.
The committee comprises the following esteemed members:
– Hon. Minister, Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor, Engr. Joseph Utsev.
– Hon. Minister, Federal Ministry of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
– Hon. Minister, Federal Ministry of Works, Senator David Umahi.
– Hon. Minister, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa.
– Hon. Minister, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Alh. Mohammed Idris Malagi.
– Hon. Minister, Federal Ministry of Environment, Mr. Balarabe Abbas Lawal.
– National Security Adviser of Nigeria, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu.
– R. P. Pheelangwah, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
During the committee’s inauguration, led by the chairman, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation Professor Utsev, emphasized that the committee was established in accordance with Mr. President’s directive to consolidate all Nigerian dams, as articulated in the President’s 64th Independence speech.
Engr. Utsev emphasized the importance of this initiative to prevent a recurrence of the tragic events in Maiduguri.
He assured that every effort would be made to meticulously assess all dams in the country, including existing ones and those slated for construction based on the President’s mandate. “With the expertise of the technical committee, we aim to fulfill our responsibilities effectively.”
In his address, the minister highlighted the recent Federal Executive Council meeting held on Monday, September 23, 2024, where the unfortunate disaster affecting parts of Maiduguri and its environs in Borno State was thoroughly reviewed.
“The meeting underscored the necessity of establishing a Disaster Relief Fund to promptly address national disasters without subjecting victims to undue hardships before implementing measures to mitigate their impact and prevent future occurrences.
“To facilitate the establishment of this fund, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, approved the formation of an Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee on the Evaluation of Dams in Nigeria.
“The primary objectives of the Technical Committee include evaluating the physical condition of dams, assessing their social and environmental impact on local communities, and devising a comprehensive plan to address the challenges associated with dams in the country. Detailed Terms of Reference have been provided to guide our deliberations.
“In due course, the Ministry will engage technical experts to support the Committee in executing its mandate effectively. Each member has been provided with a Comprehensive List of Dams and the Status of Critical Dams in Nigeria, along with a draft Concept Note Framework to aid in formulating our final report.
“As part of the operational strategy, the Ministry is considering establishing a Project Delivery Unit (PDU) to offer technical assistance to the Committee throughout its tenure. I am confident that this meeting will provide us with a clear roadmap for delivering on this assignment.
“I extend my best wishes for productive discussions as we collaborate to develop strategies that safeguard our people and environment from potential disasters.”
In a statement to the press following the committee’s inauguration, Hon. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alh. Mohammed Idris Malagi, expressed concern over the devastation caused by flooding in numerous Nigerian communities, particularly in Borno State, where the aftermath is still being felt.
The Minister emphasized the government’s proactive stance in addressing these issues to prevent their recurrence. “It is in this context that President Tinubu established this inter-ministerial committee to assess the status of dams in Nigeria and propose solutions to avert similar crises witnessed in Borno State and other regions.”
Regarding budget considerations for the dams, the Hon. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, emphasized the importance of conducting a comprehensive assessment before budgeting. “Budget allocations are based on well-informed assessments of needs, which is the current focus of our efforts.”
He disclosed that the government has allocated funds under a renewed infrastructure fund to support the rehabilitation of dams and irrigation facilities, aiming to expand our infrastructure and irrigation capabilities. These funds, combined with private and other investors’ contributions, are intended to enhance dam and irrigation infrastructure.
“It is essential to note that these actions are responses to specific events, complemented by ongoing preparedness measures. Earlier this year, funding was allocated for flood prevention and mitigation efforts to ensure states are adequately prepared.
The evaluation of dams is a critical aspect of our strategy to prevent incidents like the breach at Alau dam.
“President Tinubu has also established a committee to establish a disaster relief fund to address specific emergencies through a public-private partnership approach.
“This multifaceted approach aims to safeguard Nigerians, ensuring their safety and security, particularly in the face of climate change challenges that necessitate swift interventions.”
