Otti Signals Strong Collaboration with COREN on State Projects
Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed his willingness to partner with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
According to Otti, in a statement issued by Ctz. Njoku Ukoha, Chief Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State, on Tuesday, his administration will collaborate with COREN, particularly in the areas of monitoring and maintaining infrastructure projects across the state.
“This government will do everything possible to partner with you. We wholeheartedly accept your offer to assist us, even in monitoring infrastructural development. Engineers play a key role in that process,” Otti added.
The Governor further reiterated his administration’s commitment to deepening and strengthening collaboration with the Council to ensure sustainable infrastructural development and adherence to professional standards in the state.
According to the statement, Governor Otti gave this assurance while receiving a delegation from COREN, led by its Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Professor Austin Uche, during a courtesy visit to his office.
He, however, described COREN as a critical professional body at the forefront of engineering regulation and national development, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards in engineering practice.
“I want to welcome you to Abia State and thank you for your visit. I also welcome the Registrar, a son of the soil. We are proud of your achievements and the position you occupy,”
“This government will do everything possible to partner with you. We wholeheartedly accept your offer to assist us, even in monitoring infrastructural development. Engineers play a key role in that process,” Otti reiterated.
Addressing requests presented by the delegation, Governor Otti assured that the government would give them due consideration within budgetary provisions.
On the deplorable state of the road leading to the COREN office in Ndume, Umuahia, the Governor directed the Director-General of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) to assess the situation and report back to the government for appropriate intervention.
“I have taken note of your requests, particularly the provision of a vehicle and the rehabilitation of the road leading to your office.
“We run a responsible, budget-driven government, but we will explore ways to address these needs. If it does not happen this year, it will certainly be captured in subsequent budgets.
“Our team will immediately take a look at the road and decide whether it will be handled through direct labour or contract.
“We have competent engineers delivering excellent results, and we are confident the issue will be resolved,” he stated.
Earlier in his remarks, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of COREN, Engineer Professor Austin Uche, commended Governor Otti for his visionary leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructure development across Abia State.
He noted that visible improvements in roads, public facilities, and institutional reforms have significantly enhanced professional practice, stimulated economic growth, and improved the quality of life for residents.
“Your Excellency, your administration has demonstrated outstanding commitment to infrastructure development. The improvements across the state are evident and commendable,” Prof. Uche stated.
Professor Uche explained that COREN, established by law in 1970, is mandated to regulate engineering training and practice across Nigeria, stressing the need for collaboration with the state government to ensure compliance with standards and sustainability of infrastructure.
He further appreciated the Governor for constituting the State Technical Committee and the Abia State Expatriate Monitoring Committee, noting that such initiatives are vital in strengthening engineering regulation and safeguarding public investments.
The COREN boss also appealed for the provision of an operational vehicle for the state monitoring team and the rehabilitation of the erosion-affected access road leading to COREN’s office in Ndume, Umuahia, to enhance its regulatory functions.
He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to working closely with the Abia State Government to promote engineering excellence and support the administration’s development agenda.
The visit underscored the growing synergy between the Abia State Government and professional bodies, aimed at ensuring quality infrastructure delivery, effective regulation, and sustainable development across the state.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D.; Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije; Director-General, GADA, Arc Uche Ukeje; Director-General, GODA, Engr. Obinna Odum; among other top government officials.
