Tinubu Approves ₦80 Billion for Urgent Reconstruction of Alau Dam in Borno

Borno State, Nigeria – In a bold and strategic move to prevent future flooding and strengthen water infrastructure in the Northeast, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved an immediate ₦80 billion for the reconstruction of the Alau Dam in Borno State. The decision follows the devastating collapse of the dam in September 2024, which triggered massive floods, led to loss of lives, and displaced hundreds of thousands of residents.

A Catastrophe That Shook Borno

The Alau Dam, originally built between 1984 and 1986, was a vital source of irrigation, potable water, and flood control for Maiduguri and its surrounding areas. However, after years of structural wear and a relentless downpour in September 2024, the dam gave way, unleashing catastrophic floods across multiple communities.

The disaster claimed the lives of over 150 people, left more than 419,000 displaced, and destroyed key infrastructure, including the Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo, where 80% of the animals perished. The floodwaters also carried dangerous reptiles—crocodiles and snakes—into residential areas, adding to the chaos.

Federal Government's Rapid Response

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) convened an emergency committee led by Prof. Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, to assess the structural integrity of Alau Dam and other high-risk dams across the country.

After a detailed evaluation, the committee recommended immediate reconstruction to prevent another disaster. In response, President Tinubu sanctioned an ₦80 billion fund to fully reconstruct and expand the dam’s capacity, ensuring it withstands extreme weather conditions and secures Borno State’s water needs.

Strategic Importance of the Reconstruction

The Alau Dam serves as a lifeline for agriculture, water supply, and flood control in Borno. Its collapse not only devastated communities but also exposed major gaps in Nigeria’s infrastructure maintenance.

The approved reconstruction will include:

• Reinforced flood control systems to prevent another disaster
• Improved water storage capacity for agricultural and domestic use
• Enhanced structural durability to withstand climate change-induced weather extremes

With the government setting an ambitious 24-month timeline, construction will begin with emergency flood-prevention measures to avoid a repeat of last year’s tragedy.

Beyond Borno: A Nationwide Wake-Up Call

The Alau Dam disaster has underscored the urgent need for nationwide dam inspections and proactive infrastructure maintenance. Experts warn that many aging dams in Nigeria face similar risks, making this project a blueprint for future resilience strategies.

As the reconstruction kicks off, expectations are high that the project will not only prevent future floods but also revitalize farmlands, secure water supply, and boost economic activities in Borno State and beyond.

With President Tinubu’s ₦80 billion intervention, the federal government has taken a decisive step towards safeguarding lives, protecting infrastructure, and ensuring sustainable development. For the people of Borno, this reconstruction offers hope and stability, marking the dawn of a more secure and resilient future.