The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has reaffirmed its resolve to complete all ongoing projects across the six North-East states, ravaged by devastating floods and insurgency.
Managing Director of NEDC, Mohammed Alkali made this commitment during an on-the-spot assessment of the Alao Dam projects in Borno’s Konduga Local Government Area.
Alkali unveiled plans to rebuild the collapsed Alao Dam, whose collapse triggered the recent Maiduguri flooding, displacing thousands and resulting in loss of life and property. Rebuilding the dam is crucial to preventing future flooding and ensuring residents’ safety.
The Gwom road project is strategic, linking agrarian towns to Maiduguri and other key areas, thereby boosting economic activities and improving livelihoods. Alkali stressed the commission’s focus on completing this project to facilitate trade and commerce.
To address Borno’s immediate needs, the NEDC is constructing vital infrastructure, including facilities in Maiduguri Eye Hospital, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, bridges, and roads.
The commission is building its state office, installing solar-powered streetlights, clearing debris from waterways, and providing walking aids to people with disabilities.
Similar projects are underway in Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe states, aligning with the NEDC’s master plan focused on infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, and entrepreneurship.
Alkali said, “We have visited the site three times, indicating the commission’s strong commitment to road construction, particularly in addressing the recent spillway issues.”
“Our objective is to assess the impact of the recent flooding on the project’s overall conception. By conducting this assessment, we will determine the best course of action and find a lasting solution.”
According to Kamselem Alhaji Bukar, Deputy Director of the consulting firm handling the Alao Dam spillway reconstruction, the contract was awarded and site mobilization was underway when the flood disaster struck.
“The Managing Director directed us to assess the situation and provide a report on whether to proceed with the original contract or make necessary modifications,” he added.
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