Abia Govt, ISPON Forge Partnership to Enhance Occupational, Public Safety Standards

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to institutionalising robust safety practices across workplaces, public infrastructure, and the environment as part of its broader industrialisation and development agenda.

Governor Alex Otti gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by the national leadership of the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria, ISPON, led by its President, Chief Dr. Stephen Udezi, at Government House, Umuahia.

The Governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, described ISPON’s proposal to provide professional safety services, technical advisory support, and complimentary safety audits as timely and strategic.

He noted that with the acceleration of key projects such as the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park, AIIP, and the ongoing retrofitting of major markets across the state, adherence to global safety standards has become imperative.

He further stated that the proposed Abia State Safety Commission would work in close collaboration with ISPON to build institutional capacity, train personnel, and mitigate risks including fire outbreaks and industrial hazards.

Udezi, in his remarks, pledged ISPON’s commitment to support the state through capacity building, specialised training for government officials and contractors, and professional guidance for strategic projects.

He urged the state government to expedite the establishment of a State Safety Commission to coordinate and harmonise safety policies in both the public and private sectors.

The ISPON President also announced that Abia State had been selected to host the Institute’s 2026 Professional Development Conference and Annual General Meeting from October 14 to 16 in Umuahia, an event expected to attract over 1,000 delegates from across the country.

Earlier, the Abia State Chairman of ISPON, Engr. Henry Uzoma, emphasised that mainstreaming safety into the state’s development framework would enhance investor confidence and ensure compliance with international best practices amid growing local and foreign investments.

He commended Governor Otti’s administration for its developmental strides, which he described as setting a benchmark in the South-East.

Dr. Udezi further reminded stakeholders that under the ISPON Act 2014, only registered members of the Institute are recognised as professional safety practitioners in Nigeria, and that the engagement of unqualified personnel attracts statutory penalties including fines and imprisonment.

Nwachukwu Chinonso

Chief Information Officer

Office of the Deputy Governor