The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has initiated a thorough integrity assessment of the Alau Dam in Borno State, following the recent floods that caused significant devastation in the region. The announcement was made by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday to commemorate the 2024 World Rivers Day in Nigeria. This year’s global theme is “Waterways of Life,” with a sub-theme of “Protect Our Rivers from Pollution.”
Prof. Utsev emphasized the importance of rivers in the global water cycle, noting their crucial role in rainfall formation, economic survival, and biodiversity. However, he acknowledged the recent flood disaster that hit parts of Nigeria on September 10, 2024, and reiterated the federal government’s commitment to supporting the people of Borno State.
“As part of our response to the flood that claimed lives and property, the ministry has embarked on a comprehensive assessment of the Alau Dam to ensure its integrity and prevent future incidents,” the minister said.
The Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) also confirmed that the controlled release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon commenced on September 17, 2024. The water release, which began at 100 cubic meters per second and is set to increase gradually over a week, is aimed at preventing major flooding downstream in Nigeria, particularly along the Benue River. NIHSA has been directed to closely monitor water levels in Maiduguri and other riverine areas to mitigate potential risks.
Prof. Utsev urged state governments along the Benue River to remain vigilant, clear blocked drainage systems, and relocate residents in flood-prone areas to minimize damage to lives and property. He also called on Nigeria’s 12 river-based development authorities to closely monitor dams within their jurisdictions and report any safety threats.
In his address, the minister stressed the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s rivers from pollution, warning against harmful practices that endanger the country’s water bodies.
Mrs. Sakinatu Jimeta, Acting Executive Director of the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission, reiterated the commission’s dedication to protecting river ecosystems. She emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of water quality standards, including regular inspections and compliance monitoring.
The Director General of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed, represented by Director Stephen Jabo, also highlighted the dual role of rivers as vital resources and potential threats, particularly in flood-prone areas. Mohammed stressed the importance of flood management and reaffirmed NIHSA’s commitment to providing reliable hydrological data to support efforts in mitigating flood risks.
“As we celebrate World Rivers Day, we must also be mindful of the dangers that floods pose to vulnerable communities. We must take proactive measures to manage these risks and safeguard lives and property,” he said.
The briefing concluded with a call for public participation in protecting waterways, emphasizing small but impactful actions like planting trees along riverbanks, reducing pollution, and protecting hydrological monitoring equipment to preserve rivers for future generations.
