The decision aims to give a long-term solution to the region’s recurrent flood disasters by tackling the ongoing issues caused by the dam’s overflow.

In the wake of the catastrophic collapse of the Alau Dam, which claimed many lives and caused extensive damage, the Nigerian government has revealed plans to modernise the dam located in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The decision aims to give a long-term solution to the region’s recurrent flood disasters by tackling the ongoing issues caused by the dam’s overflow.

Funmi Imuetinyan, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation’s Director of Information and Public Relations, revealed this development in a press release on Thursday.

It is anticipated that the renovation will lessen the likelihood of a dam overflow, protecting the security and welfare of the nearby communities.

It was also mentioned that Bello Goronyo, the Minister of State, and Prof. Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, made the pledge on Thursday while in Maiduguri.

“We are dedicated to giving this vital infrastructure a comprehensive makeover. The Alau Dam upgrade is non-negotiable, and officials or contractors who perform subparly will face consequences. Any delays or poor work would result in sanctions, he emphasised.

Together with the state government, the federal government promised to make coordinated measures to stop the spread of diseases that are transmitted through water.

As part of the ministry’s prompt involvement, Utsev said, displaced people would receive water treatment facilities and sanitation kits.

This development, however, occurs in spite of the federal government having previously paid N171 million for the same dam’s renovation between June 2023 and July 2024.

For example, on September 20, 2023, N122.4 million was paid for the dam’s renovation under a contract that was given to Hammal and associates.

On July 29, 2024, just over a month before to the flooding that has now resulted in the N26 million payment for restoration works