Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has reassured residents of Maiduguri that there is no immediate threat of flooding from the Alau Dam, despite growing concerns following recent heavy rainfall.
The reassurance came during the governor’s inspection of ongoing reconstruction works at the dam, located on the outskirts of Maiduguri. Rising water levels had sparked widespread anxiety, particularly in flood-prone areas of the state capital.
Zulum acknowledged the public concern, describing it as valid and serious, but said technical assessments indicate the situation remains under control.
“As of now, based on the engineering knowledge available to us, we have concluded that there is no cause for alarm,” he said.
According to the governor, new water channels have been created to relieve pressure on the dam. He noted that the water level had already dropped by approximately four inches in recent days, with expectations of further reduction.
“That said, nobody can predict the future. We are monitoring the situation closely, and the contractor is doing a commendable job,” he added.
Zulum also issued a stern warning to residents living in high-risk areas, urging them to avoid blocking drainage systems and to stop building on waterways.
“Most importantly, I want to warn the people of this state to desist from constructing buildings on natural waterways. They must be very cautious,” the governor emphasized.
He called on citizens to take personal responsibility for flood prevention by keeping their immediate environments clean and clearing nearby drainage systems.
“If you have a drainage in front of your house, you must ensure it is always clean and free-flowing,” he said.
Looking ahead, the governor announced that the state government would revisit the Maiduguri city master plan to address structural issues that contribute to flooding.
“We must go back to the drawing board, review the city’s master plan, and ensure all tributaries and waterways are cleared to allow proper water flow into the main canal,” Zulum said.
“We must also begin to enforce environmental regulations. It may be painful, but we have no choice.”
On concerns regarding delays in the dam’s reconstruction, Zulum attributed them to technical processes but assured residents that the contractors are now fully mobilized and work is progressing steadily.
