Kafin Zaki Dam Revival Gains Momentum After 40-Year Delay

By Ladan Nasidi

The Hadeja–Jama’are River Basin Development Authority has taken concrete steps to revive construction of the long-abandoned Kafin Zaki Dam, marking a significant milestone in efforts to boost water management and agriculture in northeastern Nigeria.

Led by its Managing Director, Rabiu Sulaiman Bichi, the Authority has moved to resume work on the project, which was first initiated over four decades ago during the military era of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

The dam project was abandoned shortly after its commencement, leaving its vast potential untapped.

The renewed push follows a directive from Bala Mohammed, who called for immediate action to bring the project back to life.

During an earlier engagement with the Authority’s management, the governor established a high-powered committee comprising representatives from both the state government and the agency to oversee the process.

In a show of commitment, Bichi recently visited the project site in Kafin Zaki to assess conditions and formally relaunch construction activities.

Investigations revealed that compensation had been paid to affected landowners when the project began decades ago. However, the prolonged abandonment led to the return of residents, with farming, settlements, and commercial activities gradually taking over the area, creating complex land ownership issues.

Authorities are now working to address these challenges, including relocating affected residents and providing alternative settlements. Officials have assured that the process will be conducted fairly and with minimal disruption.

Stakeholders say the dam’s completion will enhance irrigation, improve water supply, and unlock agricultural opportunities across the region, positioning Bauchi State for long-term economic growth.