- The Federal Government has initiated the construction of a multi-purpose dam in Buruku Local Government Area, Benue State, aimed at mitigating flooding from the River Dura
- Officials have identified sediment deposits in the river as a key factor contributing to recent overflow, prompting immediate action to address the flooding situation
- The project aims to create jobs and stimulate economic growth while ensuring local community involvement in its development
The Federal Government has announced that it has commenced work on the construction of a multi-purpose dam upstream of the River Dura in the Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State to contain the heavy water that flows from that axis.
The Deputy Director of Hydrology at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Robert Umezulike, disclosed this on Saturday, October 19, while assessing the Makurdi-Gboko-Katsina-Ala highway, which was affected by the overflow of the River Dura that spilt onto the road.
Umezulike stated that the flood was caused by continuous sediment deposits in the river, which have reduced its depth and capacity to hold water.
He explained that the assessment team would evaluate the flood situation and report to the Minister for immediate action.
The dam construction is part of a broader strategy by the federal government to address climate change challenges and improve resilience in vulnerable regions across the country.
The project is anticipated to create jobs and stimulate economic activities in Benue State during and after its completion.
Officials have assured that the dam will be built using modern engineering techniques and will incorporate environmental sustainability practices.
The government is also committed to engaging local communities throughout the project to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed.
As the construction progresses, stakeholders are hopeful that this initiative will serve as a model for similar projects in other flood-prone areas of Nigeria, helping to secure livelihoods and enhance food security for millions.
FG plans upgrade of Borno dam to check flooding
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Federal Government had announced plans to upgrade the Alau Dam in Maiduguri, Borno State.
This announcement was disclosed in a press statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Funmi Imuetinyan, on September 12.
