Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has urged the Federal Government to expedite the ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of the Alau Dam, warning that delays could lead to a repeat of the devastating floods that struck Maiduguri and surrounding areas in 2024.
The call was made during a traditional Sallah homage by the Shehu of Borno, Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, at the Government House in Maiduguri. The Shehu stressed the urgent need to fast-track the project, a sentiment echoed by Governor Zulum, who expressed concern over the slow progress of the N80 billion rehabilitation effort flagged off in March 2025.
“After the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction and expansion of the dam, which we all attended, the truth is that the work is not progressing as expected,” Governor Zulum said. “The rainy season has already begun, and we cannot afford another disaster like last year’s.”
Zulum disclosed that he had recently briefed both the President and the Vice President on the sluggish pace of work and pledged continued follow-up. He added that the Secretary to the State Government has constituted a committee to undertake immediate interventions at the dam site.
Beyond the dam, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to connecting all local government headquarters to the national electricity grid before the end of his tenure. He also promised an ambitious road rehabilitation campaign once the Pulka quarry plant becomes operational.
“These are two critical projects dear to my heart,” Zulum said. “We’ve procured 40 brand-new Howo tipper trucks. Once the Pulka plant is ready, we’ll commence massive road repairs across the state.”
Governor Zulum also expressed gratitude to the people of Borno for their unwavering support and cooperation with his administration.
Earlier, the Shehu of Borno praised the Governor’s developmental strides, noting that the Sallah homage is a long-standing tradition to show solidarity and appreciation during festive seasons. However, he expressed disappointment that the first phase of the Alau Dam project has not been completed and cited the recent floods in Mokwa, Niger State, as a cautionary tale.
“We do not want a repeat of what happened in Maiduguri on 10th September 2024,” the Shehu said. “The Federal Government must act swiftly.”
He also urged Governor Zulum to continue pushing for Federal Government support on oil exploration in Tuba, improved road networks, and broader electricity access for local councils.
During the event, Governor Zulum also received Sallah homage from delegations representing the University of Maiduguri, Kashim Ibrahim University, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, and Federal Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare.
