Society of Engineers seeks strategic collaboration with Abia Govt on project execution

Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Umuahia Chapter, has expressed interest in collaborating with Abia State Government in the execution of housing projects across the State.

Nwachukwu Christ, chairman, Umuahia chapter of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, expressed the interest, Wednesday, when he led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Abia State Ministry of Housing, aimed at strengthening collaboration and promoting professionalism in the housing sector.

Nwachukwu congratulated the Ministry of Housing and the Commissioner, for the remarkable strides recorded within a short period of the Ministry’s establishment, especially the ongoing housing projects that have already begun to redefine the housing landscape in Abia State.

He noted that the delegation came not only to commend the Ministry, but also to seek stronger collaboration and partnership with the government in the execution of housing projects across the State.

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According to him, engineering professionals across all levels and cadres, should be adequately represented and involved in government housing projects to ensure proper professional composition, technical alignment, and quality project delivery.

The NSE Chairman further appealed to the State Government to consider the employment of more engineers in order to enhance professionalism and technical competence within the system.

He stated that members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers remain readily available and willing to serve the State Government in whatever capacity their expertise may be required, stressing that the Society, would appreciate being invited to participate in ongoing and future housing projects in any role deemed fit by the Ministry.

Nwachukwu reiterated that engineers in Abia State are on ground, united, and fully prepared to cooperate with the present administration in achieving its developmental aspirations.

He therefore called on the Commissioner for Housing to look inward and ensure that relevant engineering professionals are incorporated into the project implementation teams for the overall success and sustainability of government housing initiatives.

Chiemela Charles Uzoije, Abia State commissioner for Housing, in his response expressed delight and appreciation over the visit, describing it as timely and highly commendable.

The Commissioner noted that the collaboration being sought by the Society aligns perfectly with the vision of the administration of Governor Alex Otti, who according to him, strongly encourages inter-professional collaboration and inclusiveness in governance.

Uzoije used the opportunity to express profound appreciation to Governor Otti, for his visionary leadership, unwavering support to the housing sector, and commitment to delivering quality infrastructure and improved living conditions for the people of Abia State.

He commended the Governor’s unwavering commitment to excellence, accountability, and fulfillment of promises, stating that the Governor believes in giving professionals the opportunity to make positive contributions within their various fields of endeavour.

Uzoije further disclosed that the Governor is intentionally restoring the dignity and values of professionalism in public service and project execution, while encouraging independent minds and innovative ideas capable of driving development.

The Commissioner also made reference to the government’s Public Infrastructure and Building policies, aimed at ensuring proper coordination and avoiding professional conflicts within the system.

According to him, the State Government is consciously building institutional capacity to eliminate unnecessary conflicts and improve efficiency in service delivery.

He revealed that the Umuahia Development Control Agency (UDCA), which was previously non-existent, has now been established and integrated into the system to address many of the developmental and regulatory challenges previously experienced in the built environment sector.

Speaking about the on-going and proposed housing projects, Uzoije highlighted the Ministry’s plans for the Site and Services Estate at Obehie in Ukwa West Local Government Area, as well as the Pocket Housing Estate, located at the Old Civil Service Commission premises, which is expected to be flagged off soon.

He emphasized that Governor Otti, has good intentions for Abia State and is investing heavily across various sectors of the economy with the aim of improving the standard of living of Abians.

The Commissioner explained that the main objective of the housing estates is to elevate the living conditions of citizens and address the unprecedented rise in house rents within the State.

He pointed out that the housing deficit remains a major challenge and that the housing projects constitute one of the strategic interventions of the present administration in reducing housing difficulties experienced by residents.

He disclosed that the Pocket Housing Estate will comprise semi-detached houses, detached houses, as well as two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments, designed to cater to different categories of home seekers.

He further revealed that the government is currently carrying out due diligence and verification processes on contractors and expressed optimism that physical construction activities would commence in earnest in the coming weeks.

According to the Commissioner, beyond housing delivery, the projects are also designed to create employment opportunities, restore professionalism, and rebuild the dignity of workers and professionals across sectors.

He stated that the transformation currently taking place in Abia State has restored confidence and pride among citizens, adding that today many people proudly identify themselves, as Abians, because of the positive changes being witnessed across the State.

The Commissioner also expressed interest in having structural engineers and other relevant professionals from the Society participate actively in the housing projects, reiterating his administration’s commitment to job creation and professional inclusion.

Aji Okoroji, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Housing, commended the leadership of the Nigerian Society of Engineers for demonstrating commitment to the development of the State through partnership and professional engagement.

He described the visit as a demonstration of confidence in the administration’s housing agenda and assured the delegation that the government remains open to constructive partnerships capable of accelerating development and delivering quality housing infrastructure for the people of Abia State.

Okoroji further encouraged members of the Society to continue to offer professional advice and technical support towards the realisation of the government’s vision for a modern and prosperous Abia State.

According to Carol Igbokwe, Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Housing, the meeting also featured robust exchanges of ideas and suggestions on improving housing delivery, project execution, and professional integration within the state’s development framework.