The Abia State Government has made soil and geotechnical testing compulsory for all developers and private builders seeking building approvals as part of measures to prevent building collapse and enhance public safety.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti in Umuahia.
Kanu said prospective developers must now present valid soil and geotechnical test certificates before obtaining building permits, explaining that the policy will ensure buildings are designed and constructed in line with the strength and characteristics of the soil.
He noted that the initiative is aimed at improving structural integrity, preventing avoidable building failures, and protecting lives and property across the state.
The Commissioner also announced that the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) has intensified the desilting of drainage channels in Umuahia and Aba to mitigate flooding during the rainy season. Ongoing works are covering major flood-prone areas, including the Shoprite–Uwalaka axis, Asaba Street Junction, Ndume Otuka Road, Finbarr’s Road and Adelabu Street.
On urban renewal, Kanu said the state government is reviewing the condition of markets within Umuahia, including Ogwumabiri Market in Ossah, with plans for rehabilitation or relocation where necessary. He also revealed that Governor Alex Otti has approved intervention works to address the long-standing erosion challenge in Emede Ibeku Community.
Providing updates on infrastructure, the Commissioner disclosed that direct labour road maintenance is ongoing at 46 locations across the state, with several projects already completed, while additional rehabilitation works have commenced on key federal and state roads.
Kanu added that work is progressing steadily at the Green City Site and Services Estate in Obehie, Ukwa West Local Government Area, where perimeter fencing and internal road construction have been completed.
Responding to questions on the recent building collapse in Umuahia, the General Manager of the UCDA, Mr. Kingsley Agomuo, said the investigative panel would submit its report this week, assuring that the findings would be made public after due process.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, said the government would strengthen enforcement of building regulations and urged developers to comply fully with approved construction standards.
