The Secretary to the Government of Gombe State, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, has called for stronger collaboration between the Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority (UBRBDA) and the SUWASH Project to ensure the speedy completion of the Kaltungo Earth Dam for the maximum benefit of the people.
Professor Njodi made the call on Thursday when he received the Executive Director (Engineering) of the Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority, Engr. Usman Bakari, on behalf of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
The SSG lamented that the Kaltungo Earth Dam has remained largely underutilized due to its incomplete state, despite its potential to support irrigation, crop production, and domestic water supply.
He cited the ongoing transformation at the Balanga and Cham Dams, which he noted are being developed to provide electricity, irrigation opportunities, and potable water to surrounding communities.
Professor Njodi expressed optimism that the Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority and SUWASH would expedite efforts toward completing the Kaltungo Dam, emphasizing that the project’s completion would significantly enhance the living standards of the host communities.
Earlier, Engr. Usman Bakari reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to the dam’s completion, assuring that the UBRBDA is ready to collaborate with SUWASH to ensure the project’s timely delivery.
According to him, once completed, the dam will provide water for irrigation and domestic use for the people of Kaltungo town and its environs.
Engr. Bakari also appreciated Governor Inuwa Yahaya and Professor Njodi for their continued support, noting that their partnership would pave the way for the full activation and utilization of the dam.
In his remarks, the SUWASH Project Coordinator in Gombe State underscored the strategic importance of the dam and reaffirmed the organization’s readiness to partner with relevant agencies to see the project to completion.
The visiting team later embarked on an on-the-spot assessment of the Kaltungo Dam site, where they were received by the Chairman of Kaltungo Local Government Council, Honourable Iliya Suleiman, council members, and community leaders.
JD / IO
Office of the Secretary to the Government of Gombe State
