Mansa, the unsung Katagum engineer, who warned of Borno’s dam disaster
In the annals of Nigeria’s engineering history, few names carry the weight of legend like Late Engr. Abdulkadir Yelwaji Saleh, popularly known as Mansa, a man whose vision, integrity, and expertise stand as a beacon in a rapidly evolving world. As one of the first civil engineers to emerge from Nigeria, Mansa not only excelled in his field but embodied the ethical values that are sometimes rare in today’s fast-paced, profit-driven industry. His foresight saved lives and reshaped the perception of civil engineering in the country.
Warning That Went Unheeded
The 1970s saw rapid infrastructural growth in northern Nigeria, especially in Borno State. As part of this boom, plans were drawn up for the construction of a major dam, envisioned as a vital source of water for irrigation and a safeguard against seasonal flooding. This dam, later to be known as the Alau Dam, was meant to bring stability to the region, particularly to Maiduguri, which had long dealt with sporadic flooding.
However, when Mansa and his company, MANSA Construction, reviewed the project’s design, they quickly spotted severe structural flaws and miscalculations that would likely lead to long-term failure. His expertise in civil engineering revealed that the dam’s foundations and flood management design would not withstand the harsh environmental conditions of the region. Mansa predicted that the dam, if built as designed, would collapse within 30 years, leading to devastating consequences.
Mansa’s company, adhering to the principles of safety and integrity, refused to participate in the project under such risky conditions. Unfortunately, another construction firm was awarded the contract, and the dam was built according to the original, flawed design.
The Collapse of Alau Dam
Mansa’s grim prediction came true just over two decades later. The Alau Dam collapsed in 1994, causing unprecedented flooding in Maiduguri and its surrounding areas. Half of the city was submerged under water for weeks. The floodwaters overtook residential areas, businesses, and essential infrastructure, crippling Maiduguri and leaving thousands of people displaced. Canoes became the main mode of transportation in some parts of the city as the floodwaters surged into electric grids and other vital systems.
The Alau Dam, originally built to bring prosperity and control, instead became a symbol of the dangers posed by ignoring expert advice and prioritising profit over safety.
A Legacy of Ethical Engineering
Mansa’s role in Nigeria’s engineering sector did not stop at his contributions to Borno. His talents were recognised internationally, particularly at London’s Heathrow Airport, where he served as a consultant during its construction. His ability to guide complex projects with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to safety earned him the respect of peers both at home and abroad.
Despite these achievements, Mansa’s story is not widely known today. His refusal to compromise on safety in the Alau Dam project stands as a testament to his character and professionalism. Mansa is a prime example of the kind of leadership Nigeria desperately needs in its infrastructure projects. His story raises the question: in an era when infrastructure development is booming, do we still have engineers with such moral integrity?
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A Mentor of Mentors
Mansa was not just an engineer but a mentor to the next generation of professionals. He imparted invaluable knowledge to those who followed in his footsteps, teaching them not just the technical aspects of engineering but also the ethical considerations that are critical to public safety. His mentees remember him as a man of unwavering principles, a mentor of mentors, and an engineer of engineers. He hails from Katagum, an LGA in Bauchi State.
The Alau Dam’s Continued Struggles
The Alau Dam continues to face challenges even in recent times. In 2024, the dam once again experienced a failure, leading to another round of flooding in Maiduguri. Thousands of people fled their homes, and the city once again struggled with the aftermath of this infrastructural failure. The continuing issues with the dam serve as a reminder of the importance of foresight and ethical leadership in large-scale engineering projects.
Conclusion
In a time when Nigeria was still finding its footing in global engineering circles, Mansa stood tall as a pioneer and visionary. His refusal to participate in a flawed project that ultimately caused widespread disaster demonstrates the crucial role of ethical decision-making in civil engineering. Mansa’s legacy is not just one of technical brilliance but of a rare moral fortitude that we would do well to remember in today’s rapidly evolving world. May his memory inspire future engineers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
