News in brief:
– The Federal Government has begun the ₦80 billion reconstruction of the Alau Dam in Borno State to improve irrigation, flood control, and water supply for farmers.
– The project, set for completion in two phases over 24 months, aims to boost agricultural productivity and enhance food security in the region.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially commenced the reconstruction and upgrade of the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State, a move set to enhance water supply, flood control, and irrigation for farmers in the region.
The project, flagged off by the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and aims to improve agricultural productivity and economic growth.
The ₦80 billion reconstruction, approved by President Tinubu following the devastating September 2024 flood, will be executed in two phases over 24 months. The first phase (March–September 2025) will focus on immediate flood risk mitigation, while the second phase (October 2025–March 2027) will include extensive desilting and structural enhancements for long-term resilience.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, speaking at the event, emphasised the dam’s importance in providing potable water, supporting irrigation, and generating hydroelectric power. He urged the Federal Government to consider executing both phases concurrently to speed up the project’s benefits.
Farmers and agribusiness owners stand to gain significantly from the project as improved irrigation systems will boost crop yields and ensure year-round farming. The dam’s upgrade will also minimise flood-related losses, enhancing food security in the region.
The Minister assured that the project would adhere to high safety and environmental standards, calling on engineers and contractors to uphold quality execution. Stakeholders, including community leaders and government officials, pledged full support for the initiative.
With construction now underway, Nigerian farmers in Borno and beyond can look forward to better water management and increased agricultural productivity.
In related news, the state government announced a two-year tax waiver for traders affected by the 2024 flood and the 2023 Maiduguri Monday Market fire. The Chairman of the Borno State Internal Revenue Service (BO-IRS), Prof. Ibrahim Bello, explained that the waiver is part of the ongoing tax administration reforms designed to enhance the ease of doing business and encourage economic growth.
