Alau Dam, Zulum, Shehu of Borno beg FG to expedite rehabilitation work
By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has urged the Federal Government to expedite the rehabilitation and expansion of Alau Dam to avert a repeat of last September’s flood disaster.
The collapse of the about 40-year dam, led to the destruction of 150 lives and many houses, roads and public structures in Maiduguri and its environs. Over 1.5 million people also experienced their worst flood, following the burst of dam in 2024.
The Federal Government early this year responded by approving N80 billion for the dam’s reconstruction and expansion.
The Minister of Environment and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev held a groundbreaking ceremony in flagging off the dam project on March 1, 2025.
Responding to the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi’s pleas on the collapsed dam, yesterday in Maiduguri, Zulum also expressed concern over the slow pace of completing the Alau Dam project that was to supply potable water and the control of floods from Rivers Yedzaram and Ngadda that crisscross Maiduguri and Jere.
“After the ground breaking event of reconstruction of the dam, which we all attended, work is yet to progress as expected by the state government and people of Borno state,” he lamented.
Zulum continued: “The last time I visited the President, I informed. him about the state of dam project, and I assured you that I will not relent on your pleas.” assuring the Shehu that he will continue to follow up for the completion of the dam project.
The governor also told Abubakar that the Vice President, Kashim Shettima was briefed on the delayed commencement of dam construction by the federal government.
Zulum also pledged to connect all the 27 Local Government Headquarters to the national grid, including dozens of roads when the Pulka quarry plant is completed, since the state government has procured 40 Howo tipper trucks.
Speaking on insecurity to livers and property, he said, “Insecurity has been a major challenge, but we remain committed to protecting people’s lives and property with the support of the military and other security agencies.
Responding, the royal father urged Zulum to also follow up with the Federal Government on oil exploration the Tuba Basin, rehabilitation of federal roads, and the supply of electricity to all the local councils in Borno.
