FG Plans New Plateau Dam Project

The Federal Government has announced plans to build a new dam in Limpye, Ampang East District of Kanke Local Government Area, Plateau State, to improve water supply, irrigation and power generation in the North-Central region.

During an assessment visit to the proposed site, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Utsev, said the project forms part of the government’s wider effort to strengthen water infrastructure across the country. He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the ministry to assess existing and proposed dams for rehabilitation and development.

Utsev explained that work on the Limpye Dam will begin after feasibility studies, detailed engineering designs and approval by the Federal Executive Council. He said the dam will provide clean and sustainable water for communities in Kanke and nearby areas, support irrigation farming, create jobs for women and youths, and contribute to hydropower generation for the national grid.

The minister also confirmed that the Mangu Dam in Pankshin Local Government Area is about 90 per cent completed and will soon be commissioned. According to him, the project is designed to support irrigation, electricity generation and potable water supply.

Speaking during the visit, APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, said the proposed dam would also improve road access, create economic opportunities and serve as a tourist attraction.

“The reticulation is not for Kanke alone. It will extend from Limpye to Lantan and back into the Local Government Area, providing potable water to communities that have never had access to pipe-borne water,” he said.

The delegation also visited the Golong Ngas, Chief Jika Golit, to seek the support of the traditional institution for the successful implementation of the project.

Do you think new dam projects can significantly improve rural development in Plateau State?