The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has approved a nationwide audit of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to check compliance with the enhanced entry-point policy for engineers in the public service.

The council also plans to renew discussions with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) on the implementation of the policy.

COREN reached the decisions during its 190th Ordinary Council Meeting in Abuja.

COREN Steps Up Regulatory Enforcement

COREN Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Okorie Uche, announced the decisions on Thursday.

Uche said the council would strengthen compliance and enforcement across the engineering profession. The measures will focus on professional standards, technical skills, regulation and public safety.

He said COREN wants engineering professionals and firms to meet established regulatory requirements.

The council also approved the registration of 2,001 engineering practitioners.

The new registrants include 1,410 engineers, 227 engineering technologists and 15 engineering technicians. The list also contains 334 engineering craftsmen and 15 expatriate practitioners.

COREN also approved 33 engineering firms for registration across different areas of engineering practice.

Renewable Energy Certification Gets Attention

The council approved full accreditation for some firms under its Renewable Energy (RE) and Energy Efficiency (EE) Certification Scheme.

COREN runs the scheme in partnership with the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP).

The initiative aims to improve professional capacity and promote standards in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The council also reviewed certification examination results from seven training centres. A total of 478 candidates took the examinations, while 177 candidates passed.

COREN then directed Enerplaz Paygo Solutions in Port Harcourt to adopt the COREN/NESP-approved Solar Photovoltaic Installation Training Curriculum.

Stronger Response to Engineering Failures

The council also considered the problem of recurring engineering failures and building collapses.

COREN approved measures to strengthen its regulatory intervention and enforcement activities. The council said the measures would help it respond more effectively to breaches that could put lives and property at risk.

The new approach includes a competency development programme for Engineering Regulation Inspection Officers.

COREN also approved a wider regulatory strategy. The plan includes a nationwide public awareness campaign and an integrated digital compliance and verification platform.

Other measures include mandatory COREN compliance for engineering procurement and approvals. The council also plans to strengthen Engineering Compliance Inspectorate Units.

National Engineering Practice Database Planned

COREN plans to establish a National Engineering Practice Database.

The database will support the monitoring, verification and regulation of engineering activities across Nigeria.

The council also intends to work more closely with relevant government agencies. It will enforce stricter compliance with annual practising licence requirements.

The move could give regulators better information about engineering professionals and firms operating across the country.

COREN to Regulate Engineering Artisans

The council also approved the automation of registration for engineering artisans and Skills Training Centres through the COREN Portal.

It further approved measures to strengthen the recognition and regulation of engineering craftsmen.

COREN will collaborate with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to develop National Occupational Standards for several technical occupations.

These occupations include bicycle mechanics, GSM phone repairs, satellite installation, tractor operation and maintenance, motor body building and transmission repairs.

The move is aimed at improving technical skills and creating clearer standards for different engineering-related occupations.

New Framework for Engineering Education

COREN also approved the implementation of the National Engineering Admission Quota and Carrying Capacity Enforcement Framework.

The framework will support quality assurance in engineering education. It will also help ensure that engineering programmes at Nigerian universities remain within approved capacity and standards.

The council further approved revised Terms of Reference for its Codes and Standards Committee.

The committee will focus on developing, reviewing, promoting and monitoring engineering codes and standards.

COREN Approves Engineering Fee Scale

The council approved the adoption of the Engineering Sliding Scale of Fees in Nigeria (ESSOFIN).

COREN also plans to hold regional stakeholder engagement workshops before the end of 2026.

The workshops will allow practitioners, government institutions and other industry stakeholders to discuss the new measures. They are also expected to support consultation, consensus-building and wider acceptance of the initiatives.

The nationwide MDA audit and other regulatory measures come as COREN seeks to strengthen oversight of engineering practice in Nigeria. Effective enforcement of professional standards remains important to the safety and quality of buildings, infrastructure and other engineering projects across the country.

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The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has launched an investigation into the recent building collapse in the Gaduwa District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, promising sanctions against any individuals or organisations found responsible.

The Registrar of COREN, Prof. Okorie Uche, disclosed this during an interactive session with journalists and stakeholders in Durumi 3, near Gudu Market, Abuja.

According to him, an investigative panel has already been constituted to determine both the immediate and remote causes of the collapse, with work expected to begin within the next two weeks.

He said the probe will also identify all engineers, contractors, and developers linked to the project for appropriate regulatory action.

Preliminary findings, he noted, have already revealed discrepancies regarding the identity of the engineer initially linked to the project.

“We have been able to establish that the person being paraded as the engineer on the site is not the actual person responsible,” he said.

Prof. Uche explained that although the individual named on the project signage is an engineering personnel, he is not a registered engineer qualified to act as a consultant on such a project.

He further clarified that the engineering profession operates within defined cadres, including engineers, technologists, technicians, and craftsmen, stressing that only registered engineers are legally permitted to serve as consultants on construction projects.

“The engineering profession consists of four cadres — engineers, technologists, technicians and craftsmen — but only a registered engineer can legally function as a consultant on this type of project,” he stated.

The COREN registrar also revealed that the registration number displayed on the project belongs to a different individual identified as an engineering technologist, prompting the council to summon both parties for clarification.

He added that the consultant whose name appeared on the site claimed to have withdrawn from the project earlier in May.

According to him, COREN will carefully review all submissions before reaching a conclusion, adding that all involved parties will be subjected to professional scrutiny.

Prof. Uche blamed some developers for bypassing regulatory processes and engaging unqualified personnel, warning that such practices compromise public safety.

He also raised concerns about the widespread use of substandard building materials in Nigeria, noting that many imported products fail to meet required engineering standards.

According to him, laboratory tests on materials from the collapsed structure revealed that the concrete strength was below specification.

“The concrete was expected to attain a strength of 25 newtons per millimetre square, but when tested it was only 18,” he said.

He also alleged that reinforcement rods in the market are often mislabelled, creating serious structural risks for buildings nationwide.

“You may see a reinforcement rod labelled Y-16, but when measured it is actually Y-14,” he explained.

Prof. Uche called for stronger collaboration between COREN, the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria to curb recurring building failures.

He also acknowledged funding constraints facing the council following its defunding in 2023, noting that this has affected operations into 2026.

Despite the challenges, he reaffirmed COREN’s commitment to strengthening engineering regulation and reducing building collapses across the country.

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The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has called for joint efforts among stakeholders to secure Nigeria’s full membership of the Sydney and Dublin Accords.

COREN President, Professor Sadiq Zubair Abubakar, said the move would enhance international recognition of Nigerian engineering qualifications and open global opportunities for professionals.

He made the call in Abuja during a workshop organised by COREN and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to guide Nigeria’s application process for the accords.

Abubakar described the membership bid as a national priority that will strengthen the country’s engineering education system.

NBTE Executive Secretary, Professor Idris Bugaje, noted that while Nigeria is close to joining the Washington Accord for university-level engineers, focus has now shifted to achieving similar recognition for HND and OND holders.

The workshop featured technical sessions by Professor Megat Johari Megat Mohd Noor of Malaysia and presentations on advocacy strategies by Professor Christian Bolu, who urged collaboration to meet international standards.

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Panic erupted in Okpuno, Awka, on Thursday when a three-storey building with four suspended floors under construction collapsed near the Anambra State House of Assembly.

Eyewitnesses said the incident happened around 11:40 a.m. while artisans were working on the roof. “The building made some noise as it was collapsing while some construction workers were at the site,” one witness said, adding that rescue efforts were delayed due to lack of equipment.

Chairman of COREN-ERM Anambra State, Sir Victor Meju, said preliminary investigation showed “a vertically complete collapse to the rubble,” likely caused by poor concrete mixture and foundation issues.

The Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) confirmed the incident but insisted no lives were lost. “Our officers on the ground have so far found no evidence to suggest that anyone was trapped,” said ACTDA spokesperson, Ukpa Ewa, who urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information.

The area has been sealed off as officials continue investigations and monitor compliance with building standards.

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The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) agreed to work together to improve the quality of construction and engineering projects across the country.

Dr. Samson Opaluwah, Chairman of CORBON, described the agreement as a milestone for the industry.

“This marks a turning point in our efforts to promote professional excellence and optimize human resources in the built environment,” he said.

The MoU outlines areas of collaboration such as:

• Knowledge exchange
• Joint capacity building
• Regulatory enforcement
• Promotion of best practices
• Tackling Infrastructure Challenges in Nigeria

COREN President, Professor Sadiq Abubakar, emphasized the need for cooperation rather than rivalry. He warned that a lack of unity could harm the nation’s infrastructure and economy.

“If we see ourselves as competitors, Nigeria will lose. Our economy will suffer,” he stated.

The CORBON and COREN partnership will also focus on addressing the root causes of building collapses, a recurring issue in Nigeria. Professor Abubakar pointed out that most existing laws do not adequately address the actions of developers.

“Eighty percent of the issues are not captured by legislation. This MoU will help change that,” he said.

COREN has already begun the process of amending legislation to extend its regulatory authority. Abubakar confirmed that CORBON would be invited to contribute to the proposal before it is presented to the National Assembly.

“We want to fast-track the process. Our aim is to get this to the National Assembly by the end of the year,” he explained.

As part of the agreement, CORBON professionals will now participate in COREN’s Enforcement and Regulatory Monitoring (ERM) across all states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Both organizations stressed that the CORBON and COREN partnership will help eliminate unqualified practitioners and raise confidence in Nigeria’s construction sector.

“When we go out, we go as a solid group,” said Abubakar.

“This is about cooperation, not competition,” added Opaluwah. “It’s a joint commitment to build a better future for Nigeria.”

The event concluded with an exchange of gifts, symbolizing the shared mission of both councils to enhance standards and professionalism in Nigeria’s built environment.

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Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, made this call while inaugurating two committees for engineering regulation and monitoring.

The State Technical Committee (STC) and State Expatriate Monitoring Committee (SEMC) will enforce engineering compliance with global professional standards in Oyo State.

Committees to Enforce Engineering Standards in Infrastructure Projects

Governor Makinde emphasized that committees must ensure all infrastructure projects comply with engineering standards, prioritizing public safety and quality.

He stated that their responsibilities include monitoring regulations, ensuring economic growth, and improving infrastructure across various sectors within the state.

He urged members to uphold professional ethics, maintaining integrity and expertise in all engineering projects undertaken in Oyo State.

COREN Expands Regulatory Activities to Strengthen Compliance

COREN President, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, stated that engineering regulations play a crucial role in national development, improving infrastructure standards.

He highlighted COREN’s commitment to expanding regulatory activities, monitoring engineering practices, and ensuring compliance with required safety guidelines.

He called on stakeholders to support COREN’s push for a new regulatory framework in Oyo State immediately.

Registrar Stresses Public Safety and Engineering Standards Compliance

The Registrar of COREN, Prof. Okorie Uche, reiterated that the committees will assist the government in ensuring engineering compliance statewide.

He emphasized that their work will help protect lives, properties, and infrastructure projects by enforcing high engineering standards.

Their primary role is to align construction and infrastructural developments with best practices, ensuring professional excellence.

NSQF Programme to Boost Global Recognition for Nigerian Engineers

Former Osun State Deputy Governor, Sen. Iyiola Omisore, spoke on the Nigerian Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) during the event.

He explained that the framework allows Nigerian graduates to work globally without needing additional certification examinations before practicing engineering abroad.

He emphasized that this initiative would enhance the global competitiveness of Nigerian professionals in various engineering disciplines.

Committee Membership and Key Stakeholders in Engineering Regulations

The committees include representatives from the governor’s office, Federal Ministry of Works, and Oyo State Ministry of Works.

Other members represent the Nigeria Police, Nigerian Immigration Service, State Development Control Agency, and Local Government Service Commission.

The Nigerian Society of Engineers and COREN will collaborate with these committees to enforce regulations, promoting professional engineering standards.

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His appointment takes effect from March 2025, following approval at the 183rd Ordinary Council Meeting held in January 2025.

He succeeds Engr. Adisa Bello, whose tenure as Registrar has successfully ended after years of dedicated professional service.

Prof. Uche previously served as a Professor of Civil/Structural Engineering at Bayero University, Kano, with over three decades of experience.

He has significantly contributed to engineering education, research, and administration across Nigeria through various professional and academic engagements.

Academic and Professional Journey

Born August 1, 1965, in Amuda-Isuochi, Abia State, Prof. Uche attended Development Primary School, Owerri, and later Isuochi Secondary School for his early education.

He obtained an HND Distinction in Agricultural Engineering from Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, where he emerged as the valedictorian.

He later earned a B.Eng. in Civil Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, graduating as the best student in his class.

He pursued further education, obtaining an M.Sc. in Civil Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 2000. In 2008, he completed a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at the same prestigious university.

Contributions to Engineering

Since joining Bayero University in 2001, Prof. Uche has trained over 1,000 undergraduate and 300 postgraduate students across various engineering disciplines. His research portfolio includes over 90 publications in internationally recognized engineering journals and conferences worldwide.

He is a COREN-registered engineer and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (FNICE), demonstrating professional commitment. His affiliations also include American Concrete Institute (ACI) and Materials Society of Nigeria, strengthening his global engineering network.

Prof. Uche has held several leadership roles, including serving as Chairman of NSE Kano and Kabuga Branches, showcasing his administrative expertise. Since 2014, he has actively participated in COREN Council committees, influencing engineering policies across Nigeria.

Faith and Community Involvement
Beyond engineering, Prof. Uche serves as Diocesan Technical Adviser and Lay President of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Kano Diocese. He holds the title of Worthy Knight of John Wesley (KJW), demonstrating his strong religious commitment.

Prof. Uche is married to Lady Ngozi Uche, and they are blessed with four children, maintaining a balanced family life.

Seamless Leadership Transition
To ensure smooth leadership transition, COREN organized an Orientation Workshop for incoming and outgoing Registrars, management, and regional officers. The event introduced the new Registrar to COREN’s vision, objectives, and regulatory roadmap.

COREN believes Prof. Uche’s experience, leadership, and expertise will strengthen engineering regulation and professional development across Nigeria’s engineering sector. His appointment underscores COREN’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation.

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These newly formed committees aim to improve engineering regulations’ monitoring and enforcement at local levels across Nigeria.

COREN President, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, said the committees would collaborate with existing technical and regulatory bodies nationwide.

Key partners include state technical committees, expatriate monitoring groups, and engineering inspectors currently operating in various regions.

The new operational model will include whistleblowing, intelligence gathering, surveillance, investigation panels, and disciplinary tribunals for enforcement.

Fostering Accountability and Innovation

Abubakar outlined three key responsibilities: regulation enforcement, technical oversight, and stakeholder engagement for engineering advancement.

The committees will ensure engineering practices follow strict standards, fostering collaboration and driving innovation nationwide.

Mrs. Margaret Oguntala, President of the Nigeria Society of Engineers, praised COREN’s initiative for strengthening engineering standards.

Oguntala emphasized stakeholder engagement’s critical role in reforming engineering practices and promoting sustainable national development.

She expressed confidence that the new committees would advance Nigeria’s regulatory capacity and professional engineering standards.

Proper engineering regulations are crucial for meeting global best practices, boosting national development, and ensuring sustainability.

Oguntala noted continuous professional development and capacity building are essential for navigating industry challenges.

Government Support and Professional Integrity

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urged engineers to embrace opportunities provided by COREN’s restructured engineering regulations.

Represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu highlighted engineering’s transformative role in nation-building efforts.

He commended COREN’s leadership and commitment to restructuring Nigeria’s engineering sector for future growth.

Sanwo-Olu assured Lagos State’s continued support for COREN’s mission to achieve national development objectives.

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Former President of the Nigeria Institute of Structural Engineers (NISE), Victor Oyenuga, identified the proliferation of inferior materials as a significant contributor to the alarming frequency of building collapses across the country.

Statistics reveal that between 1970 and 2020, Nigeria recorded 12 major building collapse disasters, ranking it among countries like India, China, and Egypt that have grappled with similar crises. While factors such as unprofessional practices, inadequate oversight, and unethical behavior among industry professionals play a role, the use of substandard materials has been pinpointed as a root cause of these tragedies.

Oyenuga emphasized that the lack of government monitoring and enforcement has allowed the unchecked production and sale of these materials to thrive. He noted that manufacturers who adhere to quality standards are often undercut by producers offering cheaper, subpar alternatives, leaving developers to prioritize cost over safety.

“The government needs to set clear guidelines for manufacturers, especially for critical materials like steel and blocks, and enforce these standards rigorously. Regular inspections must be conducted at production sites, and when materials are found to be below standard, those sites should be shut down. Only then will we begin to see a shift toward quality and safety,” Oyenuga remarked.

He also highlighted the long-term financial impact of using inferior materials. “Building with substandard materials is a false economy. You save money upfront, but when the structure collapses, you lose even more in rebuilding costs, not to mention the potential loss of lives. It’s simply not worth the risk,” he stated.

Architect Wasiu Olalekan painted an even grimmer picture, citing widespread issues with key materials like iron rods and cement. He explained that many iron rods sold as 12mm in diameter fail to meet that measurement, and the quality of cement has deteriorated due to improper mixing ratios. According to Olalekan, some developers knowingly use these materials to cut costs, further exacerbating the problem.

“This is a systemic issue in our industry. Developers often prioritize profit over quality, and even buyers of pre-built homes face uncertainties about the materials used during construction. Without stricter oversight and accountability, this problem will persist,” Olalekan warned.

He commended states that require developers to sign undertakings before commencing construction, noting that such measures could encourage adherence to standards. However, he stressed the need for broader enforcement mechanisms across the country.

Engr. Nasiru Dantata, former president of the Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI), reassured that projects handled by FOCI member companies meet high standards. He praised the cement industry for maintaining quality but pointed out that improper use of materials by developers often undermines these efforts.

“Even with high-quality materials available, the issue lies in their application. For instance, if a developer uses less cement than required in the mix, the building may stand initially but will not withstand the test of time,” Dantata explained.

He urged the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) to intensify its monitoring and enforcement efforts, stressing that stricter regulation is crucial for the sector. Dantata called for the construction industry to be policed with the same vigor as vehicle administration and road safety, as the stakes are equally high.

Experts agree that addressing the menace of substandard building materials will require coordinated efforts from government agencies, industry regulators, and developers. Without immediate action, Nigeria risks further tragedies and setbacks in its construction sector, endangering lives and undermining public trust. The time for accountability and reform is now.

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The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling Nigeria’s persistent housing deficit, currently estimated between 17 to 20 million units.

Speaking during a press conference in Abuja to mark CORBON’s 35th anniversary, Chairman Dr. Samson Opaluwah underscored the critical role of the building and construction industry in driving economic development and addressing pressing societal needs.

Dr. Opaluwah highlighted that the construction sector serves as a barometer for economic growth worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. As the country grapples with a widening housing gap, CORBON has proposed several innovative strategies to accelerate housing delivery. Among these are a comprehensive national housing strategy, large-scale training programs for building professionals, and a plan to bolster the production of locally sourced building materials.

Central to CORBON’s vision is the establishment of a responsive social housing program aimed at addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Dr. Opaluwah emphasized the importance of improving access to land and overhauling mortgage systems to empower Nigeria’s youth to achieve homeownership. “Access to mortgages must be liberalized with proper safeguards to make homeownership a reality for our younger generation,” he stated.

The council is also strengthening partnerships with other regulatory bodies like COREN to ensure uniform building standards and robust regulatory oversight. This collaboration aims to create a stronger framework for building control across Nigeria, safeguarding both quality and safety in construction projects.

Reflecting on its 35 years of existence, CORBON has achieved significant milestones, including the accreditation of over 50 tertiary institutions and the registration of approximately 4,000 licensed builders. The council has also been instrumental in workforce development, training around 50,000 individuals in various construction trades across 250 centers.

A notable achievement is the establishment of the Project Evaluation and Monitoring Unit, which oversees construction projects and ensures strict adherence to quality standards. Dr. Opaluwah described this initiative as a vital step in enhancing the capacity of sub-national government agencies in project monitoring and control.

Looking ahead, CORBON has ambitious plans to commemorate its anniversary in 2025 with several high-profile events. These include a National Seminar, the foundation stone laying for its National Headquarters in Abuja, and the inaugural International Building Congress, scheduled for November 2025. This biennial event aims to unite stakeholders from Nigeria and the diaspora to discuss advancements in the construction industry.

Dr. Opaluwah also called for urgent policy reforms, including the review of CORBON’s enabling Act and the enforcement of the Nigerian National Building Code. These reforms, he said, are essential for repositioning the council and fostering stronger collaborations within the built environment.

As he paid tribute to the founding fathers of Nigeria’s building profession, Dr. Opaluwah acknowledged their tireless efforts in laying the foundation for the industry’s progress. “We honor the vision and determination of those who paved the way, and their legacy continues to inspire us,” he remarked.

With its comprehensive roadmap and ongoing dedication to innovation, CORBON remains steadfast in its mission to bridge Nigeria’s housing deficit and transform the construction sector into a cornerstone of national development.

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