The Benue State Agro-Climatic and Watershed Management Agency has announced plans to construct an earth dam in Mbadede, Vandeikya Local Government Area, as part of efforts to address the persistent water scarcity affecting the community.
The Director General of the Agency and State Project Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), Bldr. Victor Ama disclosed this during a visit to Ihugh where he sought the consent of residents ahead of the flag-off of the project. He noted that water scarcity remains a major challenge in the area, underscoring the urgency of commencing and completing the dam project.
According to him, the proposed dam will provide a sustainable water supply to the people of Mbadede as well as the Benue State University of Agriculture, Science, and Technology community.
Also speaking, the Project Engineer, Michael Iorwua, revealed that preliminary steps have already commenced, with plans to construct a dam capable of serving the wider area. He emphasized the importance of engaging traditional rulers and community members to secure their consent, noting that community ownership is critical to the successful execution and sustainability of the project.
Responding on behalf of the traditional council, the District Head of Mbadede, Retired Justice Kpam Baaki, expressed appreciation to Governor Hyacinth Alia and the Agency for the intervention. He granted approval for the commencement and completion of the project and called on youths in the community to safeguard the facility.
Other community stakeholders, including Elder Akor Kever and Yonguhime Yua, also welcomed the initiative and pledged their support towards its successful execution.
Earlier, the Kindred Head of Mbaakune, Chief Lubem Iangba, assured the ACReSAL team of a peaceful environment as preparations for the project begin.
As part of the visit, the State Project Coordinator also inspected the site earmarked for the construction of a skills acquisition centre at the Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Ihugh. Accompanied by the Vice Chancellor, Qrisstuberg Amua, the team also toured other ACReSAL interventions within the institution, including the community fish farm.
The Vice Chancellor commended ACReSAL for its impactful interventions and further requested additional support, including the provision of a borehole and installation of solar-powered street lights to enhance infrastructure within the university community.