The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the establishment of a technical committee to reassess the structural integrity of dams across Nigeria. This initiative aims to safeguard communities, infrastructure, and the environment from the devastating impacts of dam-related flooding.
The decision was reached during the FEC meeting held on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, presided over by President Bola Tinubu.
The reassessment follows recent severe flooding incidents that have ravaged several states, causing the loss of lives, destruction of properties, and widespread displacement of communities.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized the government’s commitment to taking proactive measures to mitigate future disasters. He was joined by other key ministers who provided updates on the council’s decisions.
The Minister of Water Resources emphasized that the flooding in states like Maiduguri—where the inundation led to significant damage—was a wake-up call for the government to reassess the condition of dams nationwide.
He noted that many of Nigeria’s dams, essential for water management, irrigation, and electricity generation, have been in operation for years without comprehensive structural evaluations.
“President Tinubu recognized the urgent need to review the safety and stability of our dams to prevent similar disasters in the future,” the minister said. “This proactive measure is part of the government’s broader strategy to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.”
The technical committee will comprise engineers, hydrologists, and other experts tasked with conducting detailed assessments of major dams, identifying vulnerabilities, and recommending necessary reinforcements or repairs.
The goal is to ensure that the dams are structurally sound and can withstand extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change.
In addition to addressing dam safety, the FEC also approved the termination of certain contracts in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with plans to engage new contractors to complete stalled infrastructure projects. This decision is part of a larger effort to fast-track development in the FCT and ensure the timely completion of critical public works.
The reassessment of dams is especially crucial as Nigeria continues to face significant challenges from flooding, which has displaced thousands and wreaked havoc on farmlands and urban areas.
By focusing on preventive measures, the federal government aims to reduce the economic and human toll of such disasters. This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s broader infrastructure agenda, which seeks to strengthen national resilience against climate-related risks and promote sustainable development.
