The Federal Government has confirmed continued progress on the ₦80 billion Alau Dam reconstruction project in Borno State, with the infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing irrigation capacity, securing potable water supply, and enabling future hydroelectric power generation.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, made the disclosure during an official visit to the Alau project site near Maiduguri on Thursday.
He stated that the upgrade is being executed in two phases, with the first phase expected to conclude in September 2025 and the second phase scheduled to begin in October and end in March 2027.
The Alau Dam, originally constructed to provide drinking water to Maiduguri and surrounding areas, is being restructured under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The dam’s upgrade reflects a broader federal push to improve infrastructure that supports food security, energy diversification, and sustainable water management.
“The project has now been redesigned to include irrigation facilities and provisions for future hydroelectric power generation. This will support farming activities across Borno State and improve water access for households,” Prof. Utsev said.
According to the minister, the first phase of the reconstruction focuses on flood mitigation during the rainy season. He explained that dam construction is constrained during periods of heavy rainfall, making it necessary to complete critical flood-prevention components ahead of peak seasonal flow.
The second phase will deliver full-scale reconstruction, including structural enhancements and integrated energy and agricultural systems to ensure long-term functionality and regional development impact.
Utsev commended President Tinubu and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for their strategic backing of the project and reiterated the administration’s focus on infrastructure-led economic transformation in underserved regions.
In addition, the minister appealed to residents and local farmers in the Alau community to halt farming activities along the dam embankment during the reconstruction period.
He also advised residents to remain calm, noting that measures are in place to prevent flooding during the execution of the project.
The minister was accompanied by senior officials from the ministry, including Permanent Secretary Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, Director of Dams and Reservoirs Mr. Ali Dallah, and Director of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate Mrs. Christy Oduh.
The Borno State Commissioner for Water Resources, Alhaji Tijani Alkali, also joined the inspection team.
The Alau Dam project is part of a broader national water infrastructure strategy to expand irrigation schemes, reduce post-harvest losses, and support integrated energy delivery in northern Nigeria.
Upon completion, the facility is expected to contribute significantly to agricultural productivity, food supply stabilization, and the country’s energy diversification efforts.