The Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), has pledged to offer a cost-free oversight function for monitoring and supervision of government infrastructures in partnership with ministries, departments, and agencies.
The pledge was made by the new NICE chairman, Calabar Chapter, Engr Obeten Nicholas Otu, in his inaugural speech during his investiture as the 5th Chairman of NICE, Calabar Chapter, and the inauguration of the new executive of the body in Calabar with the theme “Collaborative Advocacy: A Safeguard Strategy Against Building and Infrastructure Collapse in Nigeria.”
Otu said the initiative was a testament to the NICE’s dedication to supporting Governor Bassey Otu.
He expressed belief that by sharing its expertise and time, the association can contribute to the responsible development of buildings and infrastructure that stands the test of time and serves the public good.
The chairman said NICE is undertaking this responsibility with diligence, recognizing that advancing resilience requires more than compliance but innovation, accountability, learning, and constant engagement.
“Our watchful eyes and expert insight can help mitigate risks and ensure that every project undertaken in Cross River State and Nigeria at large is a step towards a safer future,” he said.
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Engr Otu therefore called on critical stakeholders including government officials, regulatory bodies, community leaders, building and construction firms as well as engineers to join hands in fostering an environment where safety and professionalism are prioritized above all, adding that together they can establish benchmarks, share best practices and create a culture that values transparency and diligence in every aspect of building and construction.
In a welcome address, the immediate past chapter chairman of the Institution Engr Bassey Arikpo thanked the executive and members of the institution for their support for his administration and steadfast dedication to promoting Civil Engineering in Nigeria.
The event featured a public lecture, presentation of a Certificate of Return to the new chairman and members of his executive, induction of new members, and presentation of awards to the state Acting Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey among other dignitaries.
The event was attended by Cross River State Acting Governor, Rt Hon Peter Odey, ably represented by Dr. Christ Ojikpong, the national chairman of NICE, Engr. Ajanaku Adetokunbo represented by a former national chairman of the Institution, Engr. Hon. Andem Ekpo Bassey, the Executive Secretary of NICE, Engr. Boaz Toluwa-Tope David among others.
