Borno Flood: FG Commences Reconstruction of Alau Dam

By: Our Reporter

The federal government has commenced the reconstruction of Alau Dam in Maiduguri, which broke down on September 10, 2024 submerging more than half of the Borno State capital and its environs in water.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the restoration and rehabilitation of the dam on Saturday, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum said that the reconstruction of the dam will restore the dignity and livelihoods of the people of the state, who were severely impacted by the devastating flood disaster of 2024.

The collapse of Alau Dam caused catastrophic flooding that killed at lseveral people and displaced thousands. The dam was built between 1984 and 1986. It stored water from the Ngadda River, a Lake Chad tributary, it mainly served for irrigation and as a potable water source within Maiduguri and its environs.

At the groundbreaking event which took place at the Alau community in Jere Local Government Area of Borno state, Zulum outlined several key benefits the people of Borno will gain from the rehabilitation of the dam, including enhanced agricultural activities, improved water supply, flood control, economic diversification, and community empowerment.

He said: “This groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding Borno State, not just in terms of physical infrastructure, but in restoring the livelihoods and dignity of our citizens.”

Zulum added that: “We understand that sustainable development is inextricably linked to the availability of water resources, and the Alau Dam is crucial in this regard.”

Zulum also said: “The restoration and rehabilitation of this dam will bring numerous benefits to our people.

“Enhanced Agricultural Productivity along the dams: This project will significantly improve irrigation capacity, enabling our farmers to cultivate more land and increase their yields. This will boost food security, create employment opportunities and contribute to the overall economic development of the state.”

He acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu for approving the repair of the dam within short period of time.

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Joseph Utsev, who was the special guest of honour at the groundbreaking ceremony stated that the rehabilitation will be conducted in two phases.

The Minister said when completed, the Alau Dam will enhance the provision of drinking water and revamp agricultural activities for thousands of people around the facility.

He said: “It is evident that the reconstruction and upgrade of Alau Dam will significantly enhance the provision of potable drinking water, support downstream irrigation, boost socio-economic activities and enable flood control while facilitating other viable socio-economic activities capable of revamping people’s livelihoods and economic development. The project work is structured in two phases over a completion period of 24 months.”

He added that phase one will be executed between February and September 2025 to cover the critical interventions to mitigate immediate flood risks, while phase two will focus on extensive distilling and structural enhancements to ensure long-term functionality and resilience of the dam, commencing from October 2025.”

Speaking earlier in his welcome address, the Borno State Commissioner of Water Resources, Engr Tijjani Alkali, applauded the federal government for its timely intervention in rehabilitating the dam.

Meanwhile, Borno State Governor has approved the construction of a primary school and hospital for Alau community in Jere local government area in the central part of the state.

Zulum said: “I have approved the construction of a primary school and hospital for Alau community to ensure development of the area.”

Zulum announced the approval on Saturday at the groundbreaking ceremony. He called on people of the area to cooperate with the contractors and support the rehabilitation.

Chairman Senate Committees on Water and Sanitation, Senator Abdulaziz Yari represented by the vice chairman of the committee, Senator Eze Ken Emeka, and the chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Water and Sanitation, Hon. Sada Jibia, attended the occasion.

Also present were the Senator representing Borno Central, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, and House of Representatives members.

The Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, led members of Borno Emirates Council, including the Waziri of Borno, Mutawali Shettima.

Other dignitaries include the secretary to Borno State Government, Alhaji Bukar Tijani, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr Richard Pheelangwaah, the Borno State APC Chairman, Hon Bello Ayuba, the Deputy Speaker of Borno State House of Assembly, Engr Abdullahi Askira, and the Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr Babagana Mallumbe.

Borno Flood: FG Commences Reconstruction of Alau Dam

ActionAid Calls for Proper Investigation into Natasha’s Allegations Against Akpabio

By: Michael Mike

The Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria (AAN), Mr. Andrew Mamedu has cautioned against throwing the allegations raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Nduaghan against the Senate President, Godwin Akpabio

Reacting to the allegations by Natasha that he was being intimidated by the Senate President for refusing his advances, Mamedu said: “So for us it is a case of those allegations need to be investigated.”

He asked the right committee should be set up to investigate the allegations.

He said: “So we cannot sweep it under the carpet. We cannot undermine her. She should not be victimized but the allegations should be investigated.

“I am not saying she is right but those allegations should be investigated. So there should not be power over. So the presidency should not put its power on it or the senate leadership may use its power to sweep it under the carpet.

“No. It should be investigated. There is an ethics and privilege committee in the Senate so they should take it up and independently run it.

“She should not be victimized. And if the offence is proven to be true then the rights sanction should be meted out. And if it is false then the rights sanction should be meted out.

“And of course she has said it and it is difficult to prove that it is the truth. But again we cannot sweep it under the carpet. We have to investigate it and find out what has happened.”

ActionAid Calls for Proper Investigation into Natasha’s Allegations Against Akpabio

Ramadan: FFS Advises Nigerians to be Mindful of Fire While Frying

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Fire Service (FFS) has launched a comprehensive safety campaign to forestall household fire incident during the Ramadan, urging householders to exercise extra caution in their homes and on the roads throughout the holy month.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Controller General, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, comes as the month of Ramadan, which is solemn month for Muslims to fast and pray, begins globally.

Jaji said: Ramadan, which began on March 1, is a period of spiritual reflection, with Muslims fasting during the day and breaking their fast with a meal after sunset (iftar) and before dawn (suhoor).

He however emphasised that this unique set of circumstances, combined with the traditional preparation of deep-fried foods, can significantly increase the risk of fire-related incidents in the home.

In a statement personally signed by him, he reminded Nigerians of the potential dangers associated with cooking late at night or early in the morning during Ramadan.

He said, “Fasting can sometimes cause lower concentration levels, especially when individuals are hungry, tired, and dehydrated. This, combined with the distractions and busy kitchens during Ramadan, makes fire hazards more prevalent,” Engr. Jaji explained.

He said the FFS is particularly concerned about the increased fire risks posed by cooking practices and late-night fatigue. “We understand that cooking is central to Ramadan, and that many households prepare traditional dishes for iftar. However, it’s crucial to be aware that the combination of late-night cooking, fatigue, and distractions can lead to dangerous accidents,” Jaji warned.

Among the key safety tips provided by the Fire boss are that “it’s essential to never leave cooking unattended. If it’s necessary to step away, always ensure that the stove or hob is turned off. He also urged people to keep children away from the kitchen to prevent accidental spills or burns.

According to him, “Safety extends to personal attire as well, with the Fire Service recommending that individuals, especially women, avoid wearing loose clothing or flowing garments like jubbas, as these can easily catch fire. Instead, they should tie back sleeves and wear aprons for added protection.

“In addition, extra caution should be taken when frying, with oil temperatures being closely monitored. Overheating oil can cause fires, and in the event of an oil fire, water should never be used to extinguish it. Instead, a fire blanket or a damp cloth should be used.

“It’s equally important to keep cooking areas clear of flammable items such as dishcloths, packaging, or paper towels, which should always be kept well away from heat sources.

Jaji also stressed the importance of testing smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are in good working order. If a household does not have a smoke alarm, he encouraged residents to book a home fire safety check to ensure their homes are properly equipped.

He also urged residents to remain cautious on the roads during Ramadan, noting that changes in daily routines could increase the likelihood of road traffic accidents. “The period of Ramadan can bring about shifts in daily schedules, increasing the risk of fire and road traffic incidents. We urge everyone to stay vigilant both in the kitchen and on the roads,” he said.

The FFS boss promised to expand the initiative with a promise to make its fire safety advice widely available through community , market and religious leaders, aiming to reach at-risk groups and ensure a safe and joyful Ramadan for all.

“We are committed to reaching as many people as possible with these vital safety tips, especially in the run-up to Ramadan, to ensure everyone stays safe and can celebrate without incident,” Engr. Jaji added.

In the event of a fire, the Fire Service boss reminded residents of the crucial steps to take:

He added that by spreading these essential safety messages, the Federal Fire Service hopes to minimise the risks associated with Ramadan celebrations and ensure a safe and secure environment for all.

Ramadan: FFS Advises Nigerians to be Mindful of Fire While Frying