The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Umuahia Chapter, has called for stronger collaboration with the Abia State Ministry of Housing to improve housing development and promote professionalism in the state.
The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the Chairman of the NSE, Umuahia Chapter, Engr. Dr. Nwachukwu Christ, and other members to the Ministry of Housing.
Speaking during the visit, Engr. Dr. Nwachukwu praised the Ministry and the Commissioner for the progress made since the Ministry was established. He commended the ongoing housing projects and said they are helping to transform the housing sector in Abia.
He urged the state government to involve more engineers in housing projects to ensure quality work and proper professional standards. He also appealed for the employment of more engineers to strengthen technical expertise in the public sector.
According to him, members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers are ready to support the government and contribute their knowledge and experience to the successful delivery of housing projects across the state.
Responding, the Commissioner for Housing, Arc. Chiemela Charles Uzoije, thanked the delegation for the visit and said the request for collaboration is in line with Governor Alex Otti’s vision of promoting professionalism and working with experts in government projects.
The Commissioner praised Governor Otti for supporting the housing sector and investing in infrastructure to improve the lives of Abia residents.
He disclosed that the government is planning a Site and Services Estate in Obehie, Ukwa West Local Government Area, and a Pocket Housing Estate at the old Civil Service Commission premises, which will soon be flagged off.
According to him, the Pocket Housing Estate will include semi-detached and detached houses, as well as two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments to meet the needs of different homebuyers.
He added that the government is carrying out final checks on contractors and expects construction work to begin in the coming weeks.
Arc. Uzoije said the housing projects are aimed at reducing the housing shortage, addressing the rising cost of rent, creating jobs, and improving living standards in the state.
He also revealed that the Umuahia Development Control Agency (UDCA) has been established to improve building regulation and ensure better development planning across the state.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Housing, Pastor Aji Okoroji, also praised the engineers for their willingness to partner with the government. He assured them that the state government remains open to partnerships that will improve housing delivery and support the development of Abia.
The meeting ended with discussions on ways to improve housing development, project delivery and professional collaboration. Sixteen members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Umuahia Chapter, attended the visit.
