Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, has assured residents of Maiduguri that there is no immediate threat of flooding from the Alau Dam, despite recent increases in water levels caused by heavy rainfall.
Following days of downpours and growing public concern, Zulum visited the dam site near Maiduguri to assess the situation and inspect ongoing reconstruction work.
Addressing reporters after the inspection, the governor acknowledged residents’ fears but emphasised that the situation remained under control.
“Based on current engineering assessments, we have concluded that there is no cause for alarm,” Zulum stated.
He explained that engineers had created new water channels to ease the dam’s pressure and that the water level had already dropped by approximately four inches. He added that further reductions were expected in the coming days.
“Of course, no one knows what may happen tomorrow, but we are monitoring the situation closely, and the contractor is doing a commendable job,” he added.
Zulum also used the opportunity to caution residents in flood-prone communities against blocking drainage systems or building on waterways.
“I must warn the people of this state to avoid constructing buildings on water channels. It’s dangerous,” he said. “If you have drainage in front of your house, you must ensure it remains clean.”
The governor urged the public to be proactive and law-abiding in efforts to prevent flooding.
Looking ahead, Zulum said the state government would revisit Maiduguri’s master plan to identify and correct structural distortions that may worsen flooding.
“We must return to the drawing board, study the city’s master plan, and ensure all tributaries and waterways are cleared to allow proper flow into the main canal,” he explained.
He stressed the need to enforce stricter environmental standards, noting that although it may be difficult, the state had no other option.
On concerns about the speed of work at Alau Dam, Zulum clarified that earlier delays resulted from technical processes, but contractors were now fully mobilised and working on site.