By Isqil Najim
Enugu State’s new Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ben Osy Okoh, has wasted no time in setting a rigorous pace during his first week in office, signaling a clear mission to revolutionize the state’s infrastructure landscape. Having resumed office last Monday, Okoh embarked on a series of strategic engagements, demonstrating a focused approach to understanding, aligning, and accelerating the Governor’s development agenda.
Deep Dive into Ministry Operations
Since his assumption of duty on Monday of last week, Commissioner Okoh has prioritized a comprehensive understanding of his ministry. He immediately commenced a structured round of departmental briefings, aiming to gain detailed insights into current projects, challenges, and priorities. This proactive approach allowed him to effectively communicate his vision for achieving Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s ambitious infrastructure targets.
Throughout the week, Okoh engaged extensively with various departments. Tuesday saw meetings with the Construction and Materials Department, Highways and Maintenance Department, Quantity Survey Department, and Planning and Design Department. Discussions focused on critical aspects such as quality control, adherence to specifications, innovative designs, accurate cost estimation, the use of durable construction materials, and fostering a proactive maintenance culture.
Strengthening Foundations: Finance, Communication, and Compliance
Wednesday’s agenda included briefings from the Accounts Department, Public Relations Unit, Admins Department, and Architecture Department. Key discussions revolved around improving internally generated revenue, strengthening financial management systems, enhancing internal communication, deepening public engagement, and ensuring operations meet the highest standards of efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
The Commissioner continued his rigorous schedule on Thursday, engaging with the Electrical Department, Mechanical Department, Legal Unit, Planning, Research and Statistics Department, and Project Staff. Discussions covered optimizing energy efficiency in public works, maintaining mechanical systems, ensuring legal compliance in contracts and procurement, improving data collection for evidence-based planning, and repairing non-functional equipment for direct labour projects.
Commendation and Strategic Partnerships
Engr. Okoh expressed confidence in his team, commending the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure staff for their dedication, professionalism, and high morale. He noted their clear understanding and embrace of Governor Mbah’s vision, acknowledging their technical competence and institutional knowledge as crucial drivers for achieving exceptional results for the people of Enugu State.
A significant highlight of the week was the meeting with Engr. Emeka M. Ezeh, FNSE, OFR, former President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement. This meeting provided a valuable exchange of ideas on improving project delivery and strengthening institutional capacity, with Commissioner Okoh expressing his intent to leverage Engr. Ezeh’s extensive experience.
On-Site Assessments and Collaborative Efforts
Friday saw the Commissioner and his team conduct on-site visits to key ongoing projects, including the International Conference Centre Hotel, the Enugu International Hospital, and Hotel Presidential. These projects are recognized for their strategic importance to the state’s economic, healthcare, and hospitality sectors.
The team also inspected the abandoned Phase 2 of the State Secretariat Complex, initiating a detailed technical audit with a commitment to its swift completion, aligning with Governor Mbah’s resolve to finish inherited abandoned projects.
Concluding the week, Commissioner Okoh engaged in productive discussions with Hon. Uche Anya, Chairman of the Enugu Capital City Development Authority. The meeting focused on fostering synergy between the two organizations, particularly in urban renewal, infrastructure planning, and physical development control, recognizing their natural points of collaboration.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Partnerships and Road Rehabilitation
Commissioner Okoh’s vision extends into the coming week, with plans to host professional bodies and regulatory agencies in the built environment on Monday. The goal is to form strategic partnerships in project monitoring, promote the use of qualified professionals, and secure professional advisory support for project design, supervision, and evaluation.
Following this, comprehensive site inspections of all ongoing projects across the state will commence on Tuesday. Furthermore, a comprehensive road condition survey has been initiated across Enugu State. This vital undertaking will identify sections requiring urgent pavement rehabilitation, facilitate the recovery and cleaning of obstructed drainage channels, and desilt road shoulders to improve surface water runoff. These measures are geared towards enhancing road safety, extending pavement life, and ultimately achieving the Governor’s vision of zero potholes across the state.
A Purposeful Beginning
In reflection, Engr. Ben Osy Okoh described his first week in office as purposeful, engaging, and inspiring. He reiterated his confidence in the staff and the potential of ongoing projects, emphasizing the opportunities for transformative collaborations. Guided by Governor Mbah’s leadership, Commissioner Okoh is poised to deliver infrastructure that meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and durability, directly contributing to the economic growth and wellbeing of Ndi Enugu. His methodical and proactive approach suggests a commissioner truly on a mission to build a stronger Enugu.