Abia Govt Moves to Strengthen Partnership with COREN

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) to promote sustainable infrastructure development and uphold professional standards across the state.

Speaking on Tuesday while receiving a COREN delegation led by its Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Austin Uche, during a courtesy visit at Government House, Umuahia, Otti described the council as a vital institution in engineering regulation and national development.

He welcomed the delegation and praised Prof. Uche, whom he described as a worthy son of Abia, for his accomplishments and leadership.

The governor assured that his administration is ready to partner with COREN, particularly in monitoring and maintaining infrastructure projects statewide. He emphasized the critical role engineers play in ensuring quality and durability in public works.

Otti also addressed requests presented by the delegation, noting that they would be considered in line with the state’s budgetary framework. On the poor condition of the road leading to the COREN office in Ndume, Umuahia, he directed the Director-General of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) to assess the situation and recommend appropriate intervention.

He further stated that while the government operates within a structured budget, it would explore ways to meet COREN’s needs, including the provision of a vehicle and road rehabilitation, either within the current fiscal year or in subsequent budgets.

Earlier, Prof. Uche commended the governor for his developmental strides, particularly in infrastructure, noting visible improvements in roads, public facilities, and institutional reforms across the state.

He explained that COREN, established in 1970, is responsible for regulating engineering training and practice in Nigeria, stressing the importance of collaboration with the state to ensure compliance with standards and the sustainability of projects.

The COREN boss also lauded the establishment of the State Technical Committee and the Abia State Expatriate Monitoring Committee, describing them as key steps toward strengthening engineering oversight and protecting public investments.

He appealed for support in providing an operational vehicle for the state monitoring team and rehabilitating the erosion-affected access road to COREN’s office in Ndume to enhance its regulatory activities.

Prof. Uche reaffirmed the council’s commitment to partnering with the Abia State Government to advance engineering excellence and support its development agenda.

The visit highlighted growing cooperation between the state government and professional bodies aimed at ensuring quality infrastructure delivery, effective regulation, and sustainable development.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole; Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije; and other senior government officials.