Tinubu approves completion of long-abandoned Ogbese Multipurpose Dam in Ekiti
President Bola Tinubu has authorized the completion of the Ogbese Multipurpose Dam, a vital infrastructure project that has been neglected for 15 years in the Ise/Orun Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, during his inspection tour of abandoned water supply projects in the South-West region on Friday.
The Ogbese Multipurpose Dam, initially launched in 2009, was designed to fulfill several critical functions, including hydroelectric power generation and providing water for irrigation and domestic use to over 450,000 people in the surrounding areas.
According to Minister Utsev, the dam is expected to generate approximately four megawatts of hydroelectric power, which will be fed into the national grid. It will also supply water to the communities of Ogbese, Afolu, Ise Ekiti, Orun Ekiti, and Ikere in the Ekiti South Senatorial District. This multi-functional project is set to enhance the quality of life for residents and support the local economy.
Minister Utsev emphasized President Tinubu’s commitment to completing all abandoned water supply projects across the nation and initiating new ones to boost Nigeria’s infrastructure. “Out of President Tinubu’s eight-point agenda, five are directly linked to the Ministry of Water Resources, including enhancing food security, ending poverty, creating jobs, stamping out corruption, and improving the environment and public health,” Utsev stated.
He also highlighted recent achievements under the current administration, which has completed three dams in Kogi, Jigawa, and Benue States. Additionally, several water supply schemes have been operationalized nationwide, and multiple irrigation projects are underway to bolster food security and manage floodwaters for agricultural use.
Regarding the Ogbese Multipurpose Dam, Utsev explained that the installation of power components would commence shortly, followed by the second phase involving irrigation and water supply. “Once completed, the project will create significant job opportunities, particularly for women and youth,” he added.
Ali Dallah, the Director of Dams and Irrigation at the Ministry, reported that about 70% of the work on the Ogbese Dam has already been completed. He expressed optimism that the installation of the power components would begin soon, bringing the project closer to its long-awaited completion.
Meanwhile, Fahd Jammal, the project contractor, assured that his team is prepared to resume work on the site as soon as the necessary funds are released. He noted that previous delays were primarily due to funding constraints and logistical challenges, including the prolonged detention of essential equipment at the port in Lagos.
The completion of the Ogbese Multipurpose Dam is expected to significantly impact the Ekiti State region, providing much-needed resources and economic benefits while aligning with President Tinubu’s broader goals for national development.
