Borno State government has expressed its readiness to embark on reconstruction work at Alau Dam before the commencement of the 2025 raining season.
Governor Babagana Zulum made this known yesterday when the 28-man Alau Dam Assessment Committee submitted its report, following the conclusion of its assignment sequel to the dam’s collapse on September 10.
He said his administration is ready to work with the federal government’s assessment team for possible reconciliation of suggestions and recommendations to achieve the desired goal of having a befitting new Alau Dam.
The governor said the state is also looking at the possibility of bringing reliable construction firms that would likely deliver the kind of work needed for such project without compromising the required standard.
He, however, expressed his administration’s indifference in whosoever handles the project, adding that what matters to them is its execution in line with the recommendations made by the committees.
Zulum assured the committee and the people of Borno that his administration would do whatever it takes to rebuild the dam, which is considered a mojor source of water supply to the state capital and neighbouring communities, without further delay.
The governor, while acknowledging some of the challenges faced by the committee during its work, also commended its members for a great job, announcing that they would be given another mandate with the contractors that would handle the project for proper implementation of its recommendations.
Earlier, the Chairman, 28-man Alau Dam Assessment Committee, Abba Garba, said the preparation of the committee’s report was conducted in collaboration with the National Committee on the Integrity of All Dams in Nigeria for amicable resolution.
He noted that the report was designed in accordance with the terms of reference given to the committee, adding that the composition was of all professionals across the relevant fields which gave the report more credibility.
Garba said it also contained suggestions and recommendations based on data and interviews conducted during investigation with details on the proposed dam’s design and reconstruction plans.
The chairman, however, expressed appreciation to the governor for giving them the opportunity to carry out the critical assignment.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that Alau Dam is located at Alau community, about 12km away from Maiduguri metropolis under Konduga Local Government Area.
The dam, which was built in 1984 with the capacity of 112 cubic meters of water per day, accounts for about 40 percent of the water needs of Maiduguri residents and its neighbouring communities.
NAN reports that the damaged reservoir is expected to continue to provide water to the increasing population of Maiduguri metropolis. (NAN)
