NEWS
Gov. Alex Otti Reaffirms Commitment to COREN Collaboration for Sustainable Infrastructure and Professional Excellence in Abia State
The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to deepening and strengthening collaboration with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), highlighting the partnership as central to achieving sustainable infrastructural development and maintaining adherence to professional engineering standards across the State.
Governor Otti made this declaration on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, while receiving a delegation from COREN, led by its Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Professor Austin Uche, during a courtesy visit at the Governor’s office in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA.
Describing COREN as a pivotal professional body at the forefront of engineering regulation and national development, Governor Otti emphasised the importance of upholding 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, highlighting his pride in the Registrar’s accomplishments.
Governor Otti further expressed readiness to collaborate with COREN, particularly in monitoring and maintaining infrastructure projects throughout the State.
In his 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.”
Addressing specific requests from the COREN delegation, Governor Otti assured that all proposals would be given due consideration within the framework of budgetary provisions. He also addressed concerns about the deplorable condition of the road leading to the COREN office in Ndume, Umuahia, directing the Director-General of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) to assess the situation and propose appropriate interventions.
“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,” Governor Otti stated.
Earlier in the meeting, the Registrar and CEO of COREN, Engineer Professor Austin Uche, commended Governor Otti for his visionary leadership and remarkable achievements 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 said.
Professor Uche outlined COREN’s mandate, established by law in 1970, to regulate engineering training and practice nationwide, stressing the necessity of close collaboration with State governments to ensure compliance with professional standards and the sustainability of infrastructure projects.
He further lauded Governor Otti for constituting the State Technical Committee and the Abia State Expatriate Monitoring Committee, noting that such initiatives are vital to strengthening engineering regulation and safeguarding public investments.
The COREN delegation also appealed for the provision of an operational vehicle for the State monitoring team and the rehabilitation of the erosion-affected access road to the COREN office in Ndume, Umuahia, to facilitate effective regulatory functions.
Reaffirming COREN’s commitment, Professor Uche emphasized that the Council would continue to work closely with the Abia State Government to promote engineering excellence and support the administration’s developmental agenda.
The visit highlighted the growing synergy between the Abia State Government and professional bodies, demonstrating a shared vision for quality infrastructure delivery, effective regulation, and sustainable development across the State.
The audience included top State officials such as 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, Hon. Chaka Chukwumerije; DG GADA, Arc Uche Ukeje; and DG GODA, Engr. Obinna Odum, among oth
er senior government officers.