The Enugu State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure has unveiled new measures aimed at ensuring strict adherence to industry standards across all current and upcoming projects in the state.
The Ministry stated that this move is part of its renewed efforts to improve the quality, safety, and professionalism of infrastructure development in Enugu.
With over 80 per cent of development activities in Enugu falling under its purview, the Ministry is intensifying oversight to ensure that only registered professionals in the built environment with valid practising licenses handle key infrastructure projects ranging from roads and buildings to other critical assets.
At a meeting with professional bodies, Honourable Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ben Okoh, stressed the urgent need for strengthened collaboration between government agencies and professional institutions.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer, Ngozi Ngene, they include the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Nigerian Institute of Architects, Nigerian Institute of Surveyors, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, the State Technical Committee of COREN, among others.
“This meeting is a continuation of our commitment to prioritise quality assurance and professionalism across all projects,” Okoh said.
He reiterated that every project must be executed by qualified professionals with valid licenses, who must sign undertakings taking full responsibility for the work.
The Ministry must also be immediately notified if a professional is disengaged from a project.
To further guarantee quality, the Ministry plans to upgrade laboratory facilities for rigorous testing of construction materials and works.
Additionally, partnerships with professional bodies will facilitate training programmes and quarterly review meetings to assess progress and address challenges.
The Ministry is also encouraging citizens and professionals to report unethical practices or poor-quality work via dedicated phone lines.
Okoh praised the strong political will and visionary leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, crediting the governor’s commitment to world-class infrastructure and transparency as the driving force behind the reforms.
“The Governor’s vision of a modern and smart Enugu demands strict adherence to professional standards,” he said.
“Our resolve is fully aligned with this transformative agenda.”
To strengthen technical oversight, the State has engaged the renowned civil engineering consulting firm Ette-Aro and Partners, with over 50 years of experience delivering landmark projects nationwide.
The firm will provide technical support, quality assurance, and expert supervision to ensure all deliverables meet global benchmarks.
“We are committed not only to stopping poor workmanship but also to rooting out substandard construction materials,” the Commissioner added.
He warned against the proliferation of inferior products and pledged collaboration with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), and materials dealers to uphold standards.
He called on all professionals and stakeholders to support the reforms.
“This is a defining moment. We invite everyone to be part of this journey and commit to building a stronger and safer Enugu in line with the Governor’s vision,” he concluded.
In reaction, Engr. B. Ndidi Edeh, Chairman of the Enugu State Technical Committee of COREN, expressed delight. He said, “For the first time, government is in the driver’s seat.”
He praised governor Mbah’s choice of Okoh as Commissioner, describing him as a leader of quality, legacy, and detail. He pledged the Committee’s full cooperation.
Engr. Peter Awunde, South East Regional Head of COREN, urged the State Government to re-profile contractors to ensure only competent firms with certified professionals execute public projects.
He also backed the “Flag It Out” initiative for reporting substandard work, emphasizing collaboration over blame.
Speaking also, Dr. Charles C. Ngene, representing the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, urged alignment of developments with the Enugu Master Plan for sustainable growth.
The He commended the inclusion of professionals in planning and pledged support for the government’s goals.
