Nigeria: Govt Begins Assessment for New Dam in Plateau, Targets Food Security, Rural Devt

Jos — The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, led a federal government delegation to Gyelle Community in Amper District, Kanke LGA of Plateau State, to inspect a proposed site for a new dam. This project aims to boost food production, irrigation, power generation, and rural development. Utsev stated the dam aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to expand water infrastructure nationwide. He emphasized the importance of water as life and the ministry’s mandate to boost food production and create jobs. The Gyelle dam is part of a broader national plan, including the rehabilitation of the Alua Dam in Borno and the development of multiple dams along the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway. Utsev mentioned that about 72 dams have been identified, with detailed studies to determine size, cost, and construction timeline soon to begin. APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, accompanying the minister, described the project as transformational for rural communities. Community leaders expressed gratitude, noting the dam’s potential to serve multiple surrounding villages. Residents highlighted long-standing challenges, including lack of water, roads, schools, and healthcare. The dam is expected to support irrigation, livestock production, flood control, water supply, and hydro power generation once completed.