Contractors Face New Challenges As Flood Worsens Alau Dam Damage, Says NEDC

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has raised an alarm over the degree of damage caused by the recent flooding to the Alau Dam and other ongoing infrastructure projects in Maiduguri, Borno State.  

Speaking to journalists earlier in the week, OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News gathered that after a visit to the site, NEDC Managing Director, Muhammed Goni, emphasized the Commission's commitment to completing the projects despite setbacks caused by the flooding. 

The inspection team, comprising members of the Commission’s Governing Board and Management Council, evaluated progress on several key road projects, including the 22.5 km Ngowom-Koshebe and Ngowom-Dusman-Zabarmari-Gongulong-Khaddarmari roads, as well as the 10.5 km Galameri-Ngowom-Koshebe road, the 3.5 km Ngowom-Dusman road, and the 8.5 km Gongulong-Zabarmari-Khaddarmari route.

Goni noted that the infrastructure is crucial for stimulating economic activities, improving security, and easing transportation for residents along the Jere-Bowl road network.

“We’ve inspected the Alau Dam and Jere-Bowl road multiple times. The flood presents new challenges, but we are here to assess the impact and determine whether to continue the projects as planned or make necessary modifications,” he explained.

OTN News further gathered that the CEO of Ankabut Engineering Limited, Kamsulin Alhaji Bukar, which is handling the dam's rehabilitation, highlighted that the original N1.2 billion budget for the project is no longer sufficient due to increased flood damage. 

Bukar revealed that flooding occurred just as contractors mobilized to the site, creating a new water channel adjacent to the spillway, complicating the repair efforts. 

“The spillway was our main concern initially, but with the new water opening right next to it, we need a thorough review to decide whether to adjust the scope or proceed differently,” he concluded.