The Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening and strengthening collaboration with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) to ensure sustainable infrastructural development and adherence to professional standards in the State.
Governor Otti gave this assurance on Tuesday, while receiving in audience a delegation of COREN, led by its Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Professor Austin Uche, during a courtesy visit at his office.
The Governor described COREN as a critical professional body at the forefront of engineering regulation and national development, emphasising 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,” the Governor stated.
Gov. Otti said that his administration is willing to partner with COREN, particularly in the areas of monitoring and maintaining infrastructure projects across the State.
In words, “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,” Gov Otti added.
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 DG, Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), to assess the situation and report 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 a contract.
“We have competent engineers delivering excellent results, and we are confident the issue will be resolved,” Gov. Otti stated.
Earlier in his speech, 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 practices across Nigeria, stressing the need for collaboration with the State government to ensure compliance with standards and the 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 Land, Mr Chaka Chukwumerije, DG GADA, Arc Uche Ukeje, DG GODA, Engr. Obinna Odum, among other top government officials.
Ctz. UKOHA, NJOKU UKOHA
Chief Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State.
March 31st, 2026.
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