The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, has assured residents of Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State of the Federal Government’s commitment to the timely completion of the Otukpo Multipurpose Dam, describing the project as critical to addressing water supply challenges and boosting socio-economic development in the area.
The Minister gave the assurance during an inspection of the dam at Otobi Akpa on Thursday, as part of a nationwide assessment of dams, irrigation, water supply and sanitation projects mandated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking during the inspection, Prof. Utsev said the President had directed a comprehensive review of all water facilities across the country to identify projects requiring urgent intervention, particularly dams yet to be completed or facing technical challenges such as siltation and structural risks.
He explained that upon completion, the Otukpo Dam would provide a reservoir capacity of 130 million cubic metres, generate 3.3 megawatts of hydroelectric power, supply potable water, irrigate 2,000 hectares of farmland and open up 13 kilometres of internal access roads.
According to him, technical assessments show that completing the dam remains the most sustainable solution to water challenges in Benue’s Zone C, with reticulation expected to extend to parts of Zone B.
The Minister, who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Emanso Umobong, directors and other senior officials, noted that the inspection was aimed at determining the level of outstanding works to enable immediate commencement of completion activities. He urged residents to continue supporting the Tinubu administration, assuring them that all outstanding issues, including security concerns affecting the project, would be addressed.
Prof. Utsev also reiterated the President’s appreciation for the support of the people of Otukpo, during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers of Akpa District, Chief Wilson Ahola.
In his response, the Head of Otobi Ward, Chief Pius Aholah, thanked the Minister for the visit but raised concerns over recurring attacks by unknown gunmen in the area, appealing for the urgent establishment of a police post to enhance security.
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The Minister acknowledged the concern and assured the community that necessary measures would be taken to ensure a safe environment for the project and residents.
The inspection visit was disclosed in a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations of the Ministry, Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, on January 22, 2026.
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