The Federal Government of Nigeria has provided reassurance to the residents of Goronyo and its surrounding communities regarding the safety and structural integrity of the Goronyo Dam. This assurance follows a thorough inspection prompted by growing concerns over potential flooding risks. Engr. Prof. Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, led a technical team during his visit to the dam site located in Keta, within the Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The minister emphasized that the visit was part of a broader initiative to evaluate the maintenance and functionality of dams throughout Nigeria, which had come under scrutiny after recent flooding incidents, particularly in Maiduguri, Borno State.
In response to these flooding concerns, President Bola Tinubu established an Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee on Dam Evaluation. This committee comprises representatives from various sectors, including Environment, Housing, Works, Budget and National Planning, Information, and Finance. The diverse representation underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that the country’s dams are adequately maintained and capable of performing their intended roles efficiently and safely. During the visit, Engr. Prof. Utsev expressed that addressing the condition of existing dams is of utmost importance for public safety and infrastructure resilience.
Assuring the community, Mrs. Oluwatosin Abiola, the Deputy Director of Dams and Reservoirs at the Ministry of Water Resources, reiterated that the Goronyo Dam is not at risk. She noted that extensive safety measures have been implemented, and all necessary protocols are diligently followed. Following a detailed assessment of the dam’s facilities, Abiola expressed confidence in the structure’s stability, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm among local residents. The minister’s remarks were aimed at alleviating fears and reinforcing trust in the government’s capability to manage and maintain dam safety.
The Goronyo Dam itself, located in Keta, has a significant holding capacity of approximately 942 million cubic meters and stretches about 12.5 kilometers in length. This critical infrastructure plays a vital role in water management and flood control in the region. During the inspection, Abiola pointed out that the dam’s protective systems, gates, and sand barriers were all functioning properly, which was a crucial determinant of the structural health of the dam. The assurance that these components are intact should help to quell any anxiety among residents about potential flooding scenarios or structural failures.
Moreover, the findings from the committee’s evaluation are expected to be instrumental in addressing any long-term structural challenges faced by dams across Nigeria. The government recognizes the importance of maintaining the reliability of such critical infrastructure to prevent future emergencies. Abiola stated that the insights gained from this assessment would contribute significantly to ongoing efforts to enhance the safety and reliability of the nation’s dams. The commitment to regular inspections and maintenance appears to be a step toward ensuring the security of residents and the broader environment in which they live.
Overall, the proactive approach taken by the Federal Government in responding to concerns regarding the Goronyo Dam exemplifies their dedication to infrastructure safety and disaster management. By establishing the Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee and conducting comprehensive evaluations, the government aims to reinforce public trust in its ability to safeguard vital water management systems. As Nigeria faces various environmental challenges, such ongoing assessments will be critical for ensuring community safety and enhancing the resilience of infrastructure against natural catastrophes.
