Uche, a professor of civil and structural engineering at Bayero University Kano, described professionalism as the foundation of national development. COREN, he noted, ensures that only qualified and licensed engineers practice in Nigeria. Continuous professional development and compliance monitoring are central to this mandate.
According to Uche, innovation in accreditation has improved the system. COREN now applies an outcome-based education model aligned with the Washington Accord. This approach makes Nigerian graduates more competitive globally while linking engineering practice to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Areas of focus include climate resilience, infrastructure, clean water, and sustainable cities.
He urged government to enforce engineering practice laws and ensure only licensed professionals manage public infrastructure projects. He also called for stronger investment in research and education to retool universities and polytechnics for practical training. Uche added that promoting local content and curbing quackery would protect the public and enhance the profession’s credibility.
Uche stressed that Nigeria must secure full signatory status to the Washington Accord. This recognition would allow Nigerian engineers to work in countries such as the US, UK, Canada, Malaysia, and South Africa.
On maintaining standards, Uche highlighted COREN’s global benchmark accreditation, mandatory professional development, and its monitoring and enforcement scheme. He also noted the adoption of digital tracking tools to monitor compliance and strengthen accountability.
Reflecting on his career, Uche said his passion for teaching, mentoring, and regulation drives his work. “Professionalism and excellence remain my guiding principles,” he said.
