Flood Control: FG Set to Construct Dam at Dura, Benue State

The Federal Government is set to construct a dam at Dura in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State to manage the overflow of water from River Katsina Ala.

This project aims to mitigate the recurring flooding that has plagued the area, especially along the Makurdi-Katsina Ala highway.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Professor Joseph Utsev, during a visit by a team to assess the damage caused by recent floods.

The minister, represented by the Deputy Director of Hydrology at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Robert Umezulike, stated that a contract for the dam’s design has already been awarded.

The minister attributed the flooding to climate change but reassured the community that steps were being taken to address the issue. He expressed confidence that the dam would provide a long-term solution to the flooding challenges in the region.

Chief Mathias Ager, the District Head of Mbaakura, one of the communities affected by the flooding, appealed to the Federal Government to ensure the dam project is completed to prevent future floods. He also expressed gratitude to the minister for his proactive measures in addressing the community’s concerns.

Local driver Emmanuel Akaakase, who regularly uses the Makurdi-Gboko-Ugbema-Katsina-Ala road and was trapped by floodwaters, urged the government to expedite both the dam project and the road rehabilitation. He appreciated President Bola Tinubu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, and Minister Utsev for their efforts in addressing the region’s challenges.

The visit by the government officials was met with jubilation from the local community, who praised President Bola Tinubu for swiftly responding to their plight.

In recent weeks, heavy rains have severely affected Benue State, cutting off the highway between the Dura and Abakwa settlements, causing significant disruptions for motorists and commuters.