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The Kaduna State Government has dismissed reports alleging that the Kangimi Dam in Igabi Local Government Area is on the verge of collapse, describing the claims as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
The government, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure, Alhaji Ashiru Abdu Na Abdu, said there was no evidence of active structural failure at the dam and assured residents that the facility remains intact and functional.
The clarification followed the circulation of photographs and reports on social media claiming that the dam was facing an “imminent collapse”, raising concerns among communities downstream.
The state government acknowledged public anxiety, particularly following the recent flood advisory issued by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which included Kaduna among states at risk of flooding.
However, it cautioned against linking the current flood warning to old images and structural concerns relating to the dam.
“Describing Kangimi Dam as being on the verge of collapse based on 2015/2016 data is misleading and not reflective of present conditions,” the government said.
According to the statement, the images currently circulating online are not recent.
The government explained that the structural concerns depicted in the images were first identified around 2015/2016, when the dam experienced issues associated with ageing infrastructure and pressure from heavy rainfall.
It said remedial measures were subsequently undertaken by the Kaduna State Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure to stabilise the structure.
“These concerns were promptly addressed through emergency remedial works carried out by the Kaduna State Ministry of Public Works & Infrastructure to stabilize the dam structure and ensure safety,” the statement said.
The government said the dam has since remained under routine monitoring, although maintenance activities have been minimal over the years.
The state government sought to reassure communities living downstream that the dam is not currently showing signs of imminent structural failure.
“There is no evidence of active structural failure. The dam is currently intact and performing its function,” it said.
The government, however, acknowledged the need to strengthen the facility’s safety and monitoring systems, particularly in view of increasing concerns about extreme rainfall and flooding.
It disclosed that the state is currently procuring modern safety equipment for the dam.
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The planned equipment includes automated water-level gauges, early-warning sirens and telemetry systems designed to facilitate round-the-clock monitoring.
“Kaduna State Government through Ministry of Public Works & Infrastructure is currently procuring and planning the installation of modern safety equipment including automated water level gauges, early warning sirens, and telemetry systems for 24/7 monitoring,” the statement said.
The state government also disclosed that a joint technical inspection involving the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Kaduna State Government is scheduled to take place in August 2026.
The inspection is expected to provide an updated technical assessment of the condition of the dam and identify any additional rehabilitation requirements.
The government said the budgetary process for the full rehabilitation of Kangimi Dam and installation of additional safety equipment is also ongoing.
While dismissing claims of an imminent collapse, the Kaduna Government urged residents living downstream of the dam not to ignore genuine safety concerns.
It called on residents to remain calm but vigilant and immediately report unusual observations to the appropriate authorities.
The government also said community sensitisation was ongoing in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA).
It urged media organisations, advocacy groups and members of the public to verify information with the relevant state ministries before publishing reports capable of creating fear.
“We urge all media organizations and advocacy groups to verify information with Kaduna State Ministry of Public Works & Infrastructure and Kaduna State Ministry of Environment & Natural Resources before making any publication,” the government said.
The statement stressed that the government takes the NiMet flood advisory seriously but insisted that the warning should not be conflated with claims that Kangimi Dam is about to fail.
“We appreciate public concern, especially following the recent NiMET flood advisory for 10 states including Kaduna. However, it is important to provide accurate information to avoid unnecessary panic,” it said.
The government appealed for vigilance and responsible communication, saying:
“Prevention is better than cure, but the truth must lead the way.”
