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The Federal Government said it has intensified works on the Otukpo Multipurpose Dam in Benue State, a project designed to hold up to 130 million cubic metres of water, following a site inspection by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev.
The Minister visited the dam site at Otobi Akpa in Otukpo Local Government Area during his nationwide inspection of dams, irrigation schemes, water supply and sanitation facilities.
Addressing stakeholders at the site, Prof Utsev explained that President Tinubu had ordered a nationwide evaluation of water infrastructure to identify obstacles affecting water supply and sanitation, noting that particular attention was being given to abandoned or unfinished dams, facilities impacted by siltation and those facing potential structural risks.
He said the inspection was to ascertain the extent of remaining work on the Otukpo Dam to pave the way for its prompt completion, saying tthe project, when fully executed, would have a storage capacity of 130 million cubic metres, produce about 3.3 megawatts of hydroelectric power, provide clean water, support irrigation on approximately 2,000 hectares of farmland and feature 13 kilometres of internal access roads.
The Minister further outlined that the project scope covers the construction of a 22-metre-high earth-fill embankment stretching over 2,468.64 metres, detailed ground investigation works, a stepped concrete spillway with a bridge, inlet and outlet structures, hydropower facilities, as well as a 13.30-kilometre access road.
Prof. Utsev said studies of the aquifer system in Zone C of Benue State confirmed that completing the Otukpo Dam represents the most practical and long-term solution to water supply challenges in the area.
He added that the dam would serve communities across Zone C and also supply water to parts of Zone B.
He assured residents that the Federal Government was committed to addressing their concerns and would deploy all necessary resources to ensure the project is completed without delay.
Water Resources minister inspects 130m³ capacity Otukpo Dam project
