In a remarkable demonstration of accessibility and commitment to collaborative governance, Hon. (Barr) Benibo Fredrick Anabraba, Rivers State Commissioner for Housing, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Boma Wakama, paid a historic courtesy visit to the Rivers State Chapter of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE) at their Secretariat in Port Harcourt. This initiative, led by Hon. Anabraba, breaks away from the tradition of professional bodies seeking audiences with government officials, as he instead extended a hand of partnership, signaling a new era of government openness and engagement under the administration of His Excellency Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS.
The visit was warmly received by the NSE Chairman Engr Idaeresoari Harriet Ateke and members, who lauded the administration’s commitment to deepening connections between government institutions and professional bodies. The visit was not only a gesture of goodwill but also an earnest engagement to listen to and act on the critical challenges facing the state’s engineering and housing sectors.
During the visit, Hon. Anabraba addressed a series of pressing issues raised by the NSE, including:
Infrastructure and Educational Facilities: Recognition of the state of dilapidated Government school, in Ngo, Andoni, and the commitment to explore viable solutions to restore and upgrade these facilities for the benefit of the communities, which the Hon Commissioner had promised to bring to the attention of the Hon Commissioner for Education.
Housing Development in Rural and Coastal Areas: The Commissioner outlined plans for housing estate developments in the state’s hinterland and coastal regions, especially through public private partnership thereby ensuring that growth and development are inclusive and extend to all corners of Rivers State.
Strategic Partnership on Engineering Standards: Hon. Anabraba emphasized the Ministry’s intention to partner closely with the NSE to tackle critical engineering challenges, particularly the prevention of building collapses. This collaboration will be central to enhancing structural integrity standards and safety measures across the state.
Streamlined Approval Process: In response to concerns about the approval and registration of building plans, the Stakeholders of the NSE proposed establishing a “One-Stop Center” in Rivers State, which would streamline and simplify the building approval process, enabling easier access to permits and fostering compliance with regulatory standards.
These points, raised in a collaborative spirit, mark the beginning of a proactive partnership between the Rivers State Ministry of Housing and the NSE. Hon. Anabraba’s presence and active engagement reflect the caring, people-centered values championed by Governor Fubara and demonstrate a commitment to a hands-on approach in addressing the state’s engineering and housing needs.
“This meeting represents not only a fresh dialogue but the laying of a solid foundation for enduring collaboration between the Ministry and our esteemed engineers,” stated Hon. Anabraba. “We are dedicated to working hand-in-hand with professionals to ensure that our housing initiatives are safe, sustainable, and inclusive.”
The event concluded on a note of optimism and mutual respect, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to advancing the quality of life in Rivers State through cooperative efforts. The Ministry of Housing and the Nigeria Society of Engineers agreed to explore a roadmap for continuous engagement and joint action to drive impactful projects and solutions for the people of Rivers State.
This historic visit which was hosted by the State Chairman Engr Idaeresoari Harriet Ateke and members of EXCO and past executive members, had made the historic visit by Hon. Anabraba to signify a turning point in fostering open dialogue between government and professionals in Rivers State, echoing the caring and progressive spirit of Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration.
