Abia State Government has opened a fully equipped building material testing laboratory in a bid to curb frequent building collapse and enforce construction standards across the state.
The laboratory, located within the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) premises, is now fully operational. It can carry out tests on concrete, soil, aggregates, asphalt pavement, steel reinforcement, and other structural materials. Officials say the facility will also conduct field and non-destructive testing to verify the integrity of ongoing projects.
Information Commissioner Prince Okey Kanu announced the development while briefing journalists on the outcome of the state’s weekly Executive Council Meeting. He described the project as a critical investment in public safety and quality assurance.
“This initiative is designed to ensure that every building project meets required standards,” Kanu said. “We are determined to end the tragic cases of building collapse in Abia State.”
UCDA General Manager Kingsley Agomuo reinforced the government’s warning that builders who fail to comply with regulatory standards would face sanctions. He said integrity tests will now be mandatory for all major construction projects.
The initiative comes as several Nigerian states grapple with recurring building collapses, often blamed on poor construction practices and the use of substandard materials. Regulators and safety advocates have called for tighter quality controls to protect lives and property.
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In a related update, the Commissioner said the government’s plans to revitalize Abia Hotel Limited, a once-thriving hospitality facility in Umuahia, had reached an advanced stage. The move forms part of Governor Alex Otti’s strategy to revive moribund state-owned enterprises and boost local economic activity.
Kanu also announced that the second phase of the Abia TechRise ICT Training program would begin on 25 September. The initiative has verified 850 candidates across local government areas and aims to equip young people with digital skills relevant to today’s job market.
On food security, he said local councils were working with the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to improve agricultural productivity. Four prototype markets are set to be constructed in each of the state’s 17 local government areas, featuring solar lighting, public conveniences, and phone-charging points.
The Commissioner further revealed that preparations are underway for the Abia Soccerfest competition, designed to discover and develop grassroots football talent.
Governor Otti’s media adviser, Ferdinand Ekeoma, was also present at the press briefing.
