Abia State Government has established Materials Testing Laboratory to promote quality standards in the construction sector.
The Materials Laboratory, located at the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) headquarters, Ogurube Layout, will stop incessant building collapse in the State
Okey Kanu, Commissioner for Information, who disclosed this, confirmed that the facility had commenced operations with capacity for a wide range of services.
“We are happy to announce that the laboratory is fully installed and is up and running now.
“The lab has the capacity for concrete testing, soil testing, aggregate testing, asphalt flexible pavement testing, steel reinforcement testing, non-destructive testing, and field testing, among so many other capabilities”, he said.
Kanu, explained that the laboratory was established to ensure very high quality of engineering and building projects in the state.
He added that the development was in line with Governor Otti’s determination to improve infrastructure standards and reduce the risks associated with substandard construction.
On youth empowerment, the Commissioner revealed that the Abia TechRise ICT Training Cohort 2, had reached an advanced stage, with verification of 850 applicants concluded across local government areas.
The Commissioner further disclosed that the training for successful candidates would commence on September 25, 2025.
“This programme, of course, is part of the State Government’s agenda to empower our youths with ICT skills to prepare them to be relevant in the 21st century.
“Of course, we know that this programme will increase the State’s digital workforce, will increase youth empowerment and digital literacy, and generally enhance opportunities for further job creation in the State.
“If you recall also, the first cohort, when they graduated, Governor Otti, graciously offered automatic employment to 19 of those participants. I believe in this second cohort, it will be no different”, Kanu noted.
The Commissioner also announced that the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, in collaboration with Local Government Councils, is implementing the East Agricultural Intervention Project.
He explained that the scheme would not only boost food security, but also create employment opportunities for the people.
Okey Kanu, further disclosed that the State Government would soon commence the construction of four prototype markets across the 17 LGAs.
According to the Commissioner, each market would feature 40 open stalls with solar-powered lighting, borehole facilities, conveniences, and solar-powered phone charging points.
“This project, no doubt, will increase local trade, thereby expanding the economic opportunities available for rural dwellers.
“It will also promote women and youth entrepreneurship at the grassroots and reduce rural-urban migration by providing opportunities for sustainable livelihoods in rural communities,” he explained.
Kingsley Agomoh, general manager, Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), while confirming that the Materials Laboratory is located at the UCDA headquarters, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, said that the Laboratory came as a response to the incessant building collapse across the state and vowed that the State Government would curb substandard construction.
