Nigeria’s Federal Government has started building a multi-purpose dam upstream of the River Dura in Benue State to combat flooding. The dam will help contain heavy water flow from that axis, addressing a major concern for residents and motorists in the area.
According to Robert Umezulike, Deputy Director of Hydrology at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, sediment deposits in the river have reduced its depth and capacity to hold water, leading to flooding. The assessment team will evaluate the flood situation and report to the Minister for immediate action.
The District Head of Mbaakura Ward, HRH Mathias Ager, reported that homes, farms, and property have been submerged due to flooding. He appealed to the Federal Government to rehabilitate the Makurdi-Gboko-Katsina-Ala road, currently cut off near the Abekwa settlement close to the River Dura bridge.
This project is part of the federal government’s broader plan to address flooding nationwide. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, announced that the government has begun constructing dams across the country, including Benue State.
Locals are urging the government to expedite the construction process, citing the urgent need for a solution. A Benue youth, Levinus Tyodoo, emphasized the importance of rebuilding the damaged road to facilitate movement and transportation of farm produce.