The Federal Government is set to construct seven new dams across six southwestern states to enhance irrigation, food production, and flood control, according to Dr. Adedeji Ashiru, MD and CEO of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority. Speaking at the 46th Annual Conference of the Association for Consulting Engineering in Nigeria (ACEN) in Lagos, Ashiru also revealed plans to concession the hydropower component of the Oyan Dam, with the potential to generate nine megawatts of electricity.
Ashiru emphasized the critical role of dams in flood management, citing the Oyan Dam’s effectiveness in protecting areas like Abeokuta and Isheri from major flooding since 1979. He confirmed that contracts for the new dam projects would soon be awarded, supporting President Tinubu’s agricultural initiatives. The dams will include greenhouses, open fields, and storage facilities, enabling continuous, year-round farming.
ACEN President, Kem-Selem Bukar, explained that the conference theme, “Sustainable Development: Building Resilient Cities,” addresses climate-driven issues such as flooding. He also discussed new regulations aimed at curbing frequent building collapses in Nigeria, advocating for improved monitoring and enforcement.
