The Alau Dam in Borno State, a crucial water reservoir for Maiduguri and its environs, has overflowed, leading to severe flooding that has caused significant damage across the region. The dam, which was originally constructed for irrigation and water supply purposes, has seen water levels surpass its capacity due to heavy rainfall, resulting in the overflow.
Alau Dam, located on the Ngadda River approximately 22km from Maiduguri, is designed to support irrigation and provide drinking water. However, the recent excessive rainfall has caused the water levels to exceed the dam’s spillway capacity, leading to uncontrolled release and subsequent flooding of surrounding communities. The dam’s storage capacity is approximately 106 million cubic meters, and it serves as a critical infrastructure for agricultural activities in the region. The overflow has severely impacted the dam’s downstream communities, with water spreading rapidly into residential and farming areas.
The flooding has affected over one million people nationwide, with thousands displaced and properties worth billions of Naira destroyed. The Honourable Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, stated that the government had previously issued warnings and taken proactive measures, including urging states to clear drainage systems and relocate vulnerable populations. Despite these efforts, the overflow of the Alau Dam has caused extensive damage.
The Federal Government has mobilized resources to support the affected areas. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all relevant ministries and agencies to collaborate with the Borno State Government to provide urgent relief and assistance.
Authorities have issued several safety advisories in light of the continued threat of flooding. Residents in flood-prone areas, especially along the River Niger and River Benue, are urged to evacuate immediately. The public is also advised to avoid traveling to flooded areas and adhere to evacuation orders. The Ministry has also called on motorists and pedestrians to avoid crossing flooded roads.
The Federal Ministry of Environment, in coordination with State Governments, NEMA, and international partners, is committed to reducing the impact of the flooding and providing support to affected communities. The Ministry emphasizes the importance of public cooperation in reporting flood incidents and following safety guidelines.
The government said it extends its sympathies to those affected by the Alau Dam flooding and assures continuous support to help communities recover from this disaster.
