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Quality Engineering in Benue State

Engineering in North Central Nigeria has been taken to another level of efficacy and efficiency. You can engage Engineers who will be using well tested, verified and checked materials for your construction and building projects. It’s strongly observed that Engineers confidence have increased in a geometric proportion since the declaration that

“Benue State EXCO had approved the sum of Four Hundred and Twenty-Six Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (₦426.5M) for the establishment of a standard Civil Engineering Material Testing Quality Control Laboratory in the state Ministry of Works, Housing & Urban Development.

 This became necessary because it was strongly observed that most materials used for construction work in the state and in central Nigeria in general were perceived to be substandard in nature, resulting to cases of collapsed buildings, thus the ministry sought for approval for the provision of a Laboratory for construction materials to be tested as to ensure its quality, and to avoid future disasters.” This is a wonderful and incredible booster to Engineering practice. As certified Engineers, it’s exciting.

COURTESY VISIT TO AKPERAN ORSHI POLYTECHNIC YANDEV

The Nigerian Society of Engineers, Makurdi Branch led by the Chairman Engr. Phelim Manger today paid a courtesy visit to Akperan Orshi Polytechnic, Yandev, Benue State.

During the visit, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Mr. Simon Iorchor was unavoidably absent due to official engagement but was ably represented by the Deputy Rector Administration, Dr. Dogo Azua who warmly welcomed members of the Branch to the Institution.

The NSE Chairman in his presentation expressed appreciation to the management of the Polytechnic for the warm reception. He went on to Congratulate the Rector on his appointment and presented a letter of congratulations to him

The chairman informed the Rector that our visit is to seek for collaboration in the areas of Engineering Standards, Specifications and codes.

The chairman also requested that the welfare of our members working with the Institution should be made a priority by sponsoring them to COREN/NSE Conferences and also assist them in upsetting the areas of their dues.

Furthermore, the Chairman requested for the proper placement of Engineers in the Polytechnic. He then encouraged our members in the Polytechnic to in conjunction with the Engineers at Dangote Cement, Gboko Plant to see that a new branch of NSE is established in Gboko.

The Chairman finally presented the NSE activities for the year as well as a list of proposed projects of the Branch and asked for assistance from the Polytechnic.

In his response the representative of the Rector assured the NSE of the Institution’s cooperation and promised to convey our requests to the Rector with a view to granting them.

There was also a goodwill message from the Engineers from Dangote Cement by Engr. Nyitse Ajila who promised to collaborate with the Engineers at the Polytechnic to ensure that a new branch of NSE is established in Gboko.

Engineers at the Polytechnic complained of wrong placement especially with the entry point and also requested to know the procedure for registration.

The Chairman promised that as soon as the appropriate information is made available, the NSE will approach the relevant authorities for redress.

For the registration process, the General Secretary was allowed to explain.

A vote of thanks was given by the Dean of Engineering.

NSE Makurdi Branch Pays Courtesy Visit to Max Woody Tech Limited MD, Explores Collaboration

The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Makurdi Branch, today paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Kuma Aii Iyenge, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Max Woody Tech Limited, a leading manufacturing and construction firm in Makurdi.

The delegation was led by the Branch Vice Chairman, Engr. Terhemba Agber, FNSE, who represented the Branch Chairman, Engr. Fidelis Ukeh, FNSE. The visit underscored the NSE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between professional Engineers and local industries for mutual growth and development.

In his remarks, Engr. Agber introduced the NSE as the premier professional body and umbrella organization for engineering professionals across all disciplines in Nigeria. He highlighted its core mandates, which include promoting excellence, upholding ethical standards, advancing the engineering field, engaging in policy advocacy, conducting technical activities, and delivering professional development and training programs.

“The objective of this courtesy visit is to interact with your leadership, tour the factory premises to assess the functionality of your machines, equipment, and product lines, and identify potential areas for partnership and collaboration that could benefit the engineering profession, industry, and the broader community,” Engr. Agber stated.

Responding warmly to the delegation, Mr. Kuma Aii Iyenge expressed appreciation for the visit and shared key highlights of Max Woody Tech Limited’s contributions. He noted that the company’s apprenticeship program has successfully trained and empowered over 500 young men, while the firm currently employs more than 100 staff members and invited Engineers to come up with critics towards the activities of the Company if any, so as to help reshape the company for better service delivery.

Max Woody Tech Limited operates as a multifaceted conglomerate, specializing in woodworking, furniture manufacturing, upholstery, welding and metal fabrication, as well as real estate development. The company has established a strong reputation for quality household and office furnishings, royal and traditional pieces, and related services, playing a vital role in skills development and economic activity in Benue State.

The visit featured a guided tour of the factory, allowing the NSE team to observe production processes, machinery operations, and product quality firsthand. Discussions centered on opportunities for collaboration, including engineering expertise in equipment maintenance, process optimization, skill enhancement initiatives, youth training programs, and potential joint projects aligned with national industrial and infrastructure goals.

This engagement reflects the NSE Makurdi Branch’s commitment to fostering industry-academia-professional linkages, supporting local manufacturing, and advancing youth empowerment through technical collaboration in Benue State.

Both parties expressed enthusiasm for future partnerships that could drive innovation, create additional employment, and contribute to sustainable industrial progress in the region.

Engr. Terhember Agber, FNSE appreciated the MD for his hospitality and kind gesture towards the delegation.

 Engr. James Godwin Usue, MNSE

 Publicity Secretary, NSE Makurdi Branch

Annual General Meeting / Elections

The Nigerian Society of Engineers, Makurdi Branch reminds her members of her forthcoming Annual General Meeting / Elections holding on Thursday 31st July, 2025. 

Members are urged to clear up Local and National dues to be eligible to attend the AGM and to vote and be voted for. 

The AGM /Election will hold at COREN Zonal Office, Makurdi, by 2pm prompt.

For further inquiries please call:

Engr. David Osu          08136623229

Engr Sefa Iorpine       0810 642 9223

Signed, 

Engr. David Osu,

Electoral Committee 2025.

COURTESY VISIT ON THE MANAGING DIRECTOR(MD) LOWER BENUE RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MAKURDI

On Friday the 23rd day of May, 2025, the Nigerian Society of Engineers Makurdi Branch led by the Chairman Engr. Phelim Ukeyima Manger, MNSE paid a courtesy visit on the Managing Director (MD), Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority, Engr. Terese Ninga, MNSE.

After the introductions, the Chairman on behalf of the Branch thanked the MD for granting the NSE Makurdi Branch permission to pay him a visit despite his tight schedules. He further felicitated with the MD on his well-deserved appointment while thanking the President and Commander – in – Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for finding a member of the Branch worthy of this exalted position. The Chairman assured the MD of the Branch’s total support to him at any time. The Branch has had a good relationship with Lower Benue and this visit seeks to re-establish it for mutual benefit.

Engr. Manger asked the MD for His support to the professional development of our members in Lower Benue in the area of sponsoring them to COREN Assembly and the NSE National Conference and AGM. Also, the Chairman requested for employment for Engineers.

The Chairman finally informed the MD that the Benue State Ministry of Works has established a Materials Testing Laboratory which will be of help to Lower Benue while also informing him of the Branch’s activities which includes the OGM, Games and 2025 Engineering Week that is coming up from 2nd to 6th June, 2025 and solicited for his support.

In his response, the MD began by thanking God and the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for finding him worthy of the appointment. He also expressed appreciation to the NSE Makurdi for identifying with him.  The MD commended the Engineers for being industrious in keeping the economy of the nation running. Finaly, he promised to support NSE programs within his capacity.

The Director, Construction, Operations and Maintenance at Lower Benue Engr. Dr. V. J. Omale, FNSE also thanked the NSE for the visit and extended the apology from the Executive Director Engineering, Engr. Timothy Ogomola Okibe who was unavoidably absent.

The Chairman signed the Visitor’s Register after which there was photo session.

Over Eighteen Engineers attended the visit.

Engr. P. O. Akange, MNSE

Publicity Secretary

TECHNICAL VISIT TO INFRASTRUCTURAL POJECTS AT REV. FR.  MOSES ORSHIO ADASU UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (MOAUTH) MAKURDI.

The Nigerian Society of Engineers Makurdi Branch led by the Chairman Engr. Phelim Ukeyima Manger, MNSE and accompanied by the COREN State Officer, Engr. Simon Shagbaor, MNSE on Monday 19th May, 2025 took a tour of both completed and ongoing projects at the Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University Teaching Hospital (MOAUTH), Makurdi.

The NSE Makurdi Branch was given a warm welcome to the Hospital by the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Dr. Stephen Hwande and his Management team. In his remarks the Branch Chairman commended the CMD for the transformative infrastructural development that has taken place since his assumption of duty and expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. DR. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for discovering Dr. Hwande to serve as the CMD. He further stated that NSE Makurdi Branch is on the visit to have firsthand knowledge of the projects and check if quality and standards are adhered to in the execution of the projects.

Finally, the Chairman Invited the CMD to the 2025 Engineering Week and requested for his support as he did last year.

In his response the CMD expressed appreciation to God and the Executive Governor of Benue State for the opportunity given to him to serve. He also commended the NSE Makurdi Branch Chairman for his pragmatic leadership and the entire NSE for the visit. The CMD promised to make the Hospital very competitive. On the 2025 Engineering week he promised to support financially.

The head of Works and Maintenance at the Hospital Engr. Timothy Undu, MNSE and other Engineers took the NSE Makurdi Branch round the projects which included:

  1. A 230 liters per day capacity Water Treatment Plant (Ongoing construction)
  2. Benue Cancer Center (Ongoing construction)
  3. Therapeutic Center for Children with Special Needs (Completed)
  4. Gov. Alia’s Pharmaco-Surgical Complex (Completed) and
  5. VIP Smart Clinic (Ongoing Construction).

After the tour, the COREN State Officer commended the CMD for a job well-done but observed that more indigenous Engineers be engaged on the projects.

The Branch Chairman on behalf of members observed that some Engineers on site were not up to date with the renewal of their practicing license, some projects drawings did not have approval from Development Control and recommended that the Hospital consider Solar Power supply especially for the Water Treatment Plant.

The CMD promised to look into the observations and thanked the NSE for the visit.

There were photo sessions.

A total of sixteen (16) Engineers and one Graduate member were in attendance.

Engr. Peter Orseer Akange, MNSE

Publicity Secretary

COURTESY VISIT ON THE COMMANDANT NIGERIAN ARMY SCHOOL OF MILITARY ENGINEERING

The Nigerian Society of Engineers Makurdi Branch led by her Chairman Engr. Phelim Ukeyima Manger, MNSE on Monday 12th May, 2025 paid a courtesy visit on the Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME) Maj. Gen. E. I. Ekpenyoung at the Headquarters in Makurdi.

In a remark, the Chairman on behalf of Branch felicitated with the Commandant on his appointment and also condoled with him on the demise of his mother where a condolence letter was presented to the commandant.  The Chairman further stated that the NSE Makurdi visited to introduce the Branch EXCO to the new Commandant and seek collaboration with NASME in the areas of Membership registration for officers, project supervision to ensure compliance with Standards, employment of Engineers, Corp members and Students on industrial training and other areas of interest for mutual benefit.

The Chairman intimated the commandant of the activities of the branch such as the monthly Ordinary General meeting which comes up every last Thursday of the Month, Games and the 2025 Engineering week.  Concerning the Engineering week, the Central Planning Committee (CPC) Chairman, Engr. Julius A. Oboh, MNSE briefed the Commandant on the activities to be carried out during the week which will hold from 2nd to 6th June, 2025. A letter of invitation and sponsorship was also presented to the Commandant.

In his response, the Commandant welcomed the NSE Makurdi Branch and thanked them for identifying with him. He promised to become a registered member of NSE and to collaborate with NSE Makurdi  as has been the tradition of NASME.

The Commandant requested that the NSE should package a presentation detailing what NSE and COREN are and registration guidelines to help create awareness for officers. On project supervision he promised to involve the NSE and requested that package the things to look out for during project supervision and compliance to serve as a guide for schools for teaching students.

Finally, the Commandant said NASME has been accepting students and Corp members and will continue to do so based on the available capacity of the institution.

The Branch Chairman signed the visitor’s book while the Commandant presented a Souvenir to NSE and there was a photo session.

Six members attended the courtesy visit.

Engr. Peter Orseer Akange, MNSE

Publicity Secretary.

TECHNICAL VISIT TO MATERIAL TESTING LABORATORY AND OTHER ONGOING PROJECTS OF THE MINISTRY OF WORKS HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MAKURDI.

The Nigerian Society of Engineers Makurdi Branch on Tuesday 6th May, 2025 took a technical tour of the Materials Testing Laboratory and several ongoing projects undertaken by the Ministry of Works, Housing and Urban Development Makurdi. This visit was led by the Branch Chairman Engr. Phelim U. Manger, MNSE.

The NSE Makurdi Branch was welcomed at the Ministry Headquarters by the Hon. Commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Engr. Donald Ikyaaza, MNSE after which the Director of Civil Engineering Directorate, Engr. Tivfa Wombo, MNSE took the Team to the ultra-modern Laboratory. The Head of the Laboratory, Engr. Mbavaren Orngu – Ayaka, MNSE took the members of NSE Makurdi Branch round the Laboratory which has three sections namely:

  • Aggregate testing
  • Asphalt Testing and
  • Soil Analysis.

There was a question-and-answer session. All who spoke commended the director for achieving this great feat and enquired to know how they intend to run and maintain the facility. The Civil Director said they are open to private partnership in running and maintaining the Laboratory for sustainability.

The Branch Chairman Commended the Director, Civil Engineering Directorate and the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for setting up the Laboratory which is the first of its kind in the North Central region of Nigeria and encouraged the Directors of Mechanical and Electrical to come up with something similar to what Civil has done. He further encouraged private practitioners to key into the opportunity of partnering with the Ministry for mutual benefit.

The NSE Makurdi team proceeded to the ongoing Rehabilitation works on Makurdi Gboko road (Wurukum – Airforce Base Section) handled by Bahaus Construction Ltd, Construction of Sokoto Street and the Idye basin flood control channel handled by TRAICTA and finally inspected the Construction of High-Level Underpass also been handled by Bahaus Construction Ltd. Various observations were made at all the sites and were noted by the contractors and the Ministry.

There were photo sessions.

Seventeen Engineers and one Student attended the technical visit.

Engr. Peter Orseer Akange, MNSE

Publicity Secretary.

COURTESY VISIT ON THE PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, MAKURDI

The Nigerian Society of Engineers, Makurdi Branch led by the Branch Chairman, Engr. Phelim U. Manger, MNSE on Wednesday 23rd April, 2025 paid a courtesy visit on one of their own, Engr. Donald Ikyaaza, MNSE who was recently appointed Permanent Secretary in the Benue State Civil Service and posted to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Urban Development.

The NSE Makurdi branch Chairman on behalf of the entire members congratulated the Permanent Secretary on his well-deserved appointment and expressed profound appreciation to the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Fr. DR. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for finding one of our Engineers worthy of appointment as Permanent Secretary. The Chairman expressed confidence that the PS will not disappoint the NSE based on his track record of successes recorded in the past and haven grown through the ranks to attain this height.

The Chairman solicited collaboration with the PS and the entire ministry in the technical aspect like monitoring and supervision to see that standards and quality are achieved in project execution as well as capacity development for staff of the Ministry and NSE members. He thanked the Ministry for using one of our members to train their staff in the newly established Soil Science Laboratory.

Furthermore, the Chairman intimated the PS of the NSE’s upcoming programs like the Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) coming up on Thursday 24th April 2025, Engineering games 3rd May, 2025, Engineering Week slated for 2nd to 6th June, 2025. Engr. Manger inform the PS that most Engineers of the Ministry hardly attend NSE programs.

Another request made by the Chairman was the NSE’s request to the Governor for the land beside COREN state office which he appealed to the PS to assist the NSE in reminding the Governor of our request.

Finally, the Chairman urged the PS as well as the Ministry to establish a Mentoring system for young Engineers by recruiting them to work on ongoing projects.

In his response, the PS Engr. Donald Ikyaaza, MNSE welcomed and thanked the NSE for identifying with him as this has clearly shown him that he is not alone.

He promised to assist in the recruitment of young Engineers if the vacancies exist. Also, Engineers should come up with proposals for engagements.

On the non-attendance of NSE programs by majority of Engineers from the Ministry, Engr. Ikyaaza promised to encourage them to attend, and he will also be available and support financially subject to availability of funds.  

Land request: the PS asked for a copy of the letter submitted to the Governor and promised to discuss the matter with the Director General of BENGIS.

Engr. D. Ikyaaza further advised Engineers to have unity of purpose in order to take their rightful position in the society

The PS finally expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Benue state for finding him worthy of this appointment and requested for prayers not to disappoint.

A vote of thanks was given by Engr. Alex Akorigyah, MNSE on behalf of the Branch,

Thirteen (13) Engineers were in attendance.

Engr. Peter Orseer Akange, MNSE

Publicity Secretary

NSE MAKURDI BRANCH PAYS A COURTESY VISIT TO HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, TOR JECHIRA II

It was a moment of immense joy and historic significance this day, Saturday, April 19th, 2025, as the Nigerian Society of Engineers Makurdi Branch and their spouses as led by their Chairman, Engr. Ukeyima P. Manger, MNSE and supported by Engress Martina Manager gathered in unity and pride to pay homage, and extend a heartfelt congratulation and felicitate with Tor Jechira II, Engr. Chief Edward Ujege, FNSE, MFR, the Pioneer Chairman of NSE Makurdi Branch who was deservedly installed as Tor Jechira II.
In his felicitation message, NSE Makurdi Branch Chairman, Engr. Ukeyima P. Manger, MNSE said that it was with deep respect and admiration that NSE Makurdi Branch came to pay homage to His Royal Highness, Engr. Chief Edward Ujege, FNSE, MFR, considering his unwavering commitment to engineering excellence, cultural heritage and community leadership. He acknowledged that His Royal Highness’s elevation was an empirical channel to strengthening engineering and traditional leadership for sustainable development. He further praised the insight of the Jechira kingdom for making the right decision. The Chairman concluded by pledging that the branch was available to support in whatsoever ways possible to see His Royal Highness succeed.
In his response, Tor Jechira II, His Royal Highness, Engr. Chief Edward Ujege, FNSE, MFR, expressed his great joy and appreciation. He acknowledged the hand of God in his life and promised to utilize his vast engineering experience to promote peace, equality, justice and sustainable development. He said that he was also opened to new ideas and all array of necessary information to help him make the right decisions. Her Royal Highness, Mrs. Theresa Ujege, Ngo U Jechira was similarly glad to see Engineers and their spouse as they came to felicitate and pay homage. She delightedly welcomed them and also treated them to lavish lunch. This royal engineering atmosphere gave every one the opportunity to reflect on the beauty of togetherness, value of engineering associations and the lasting legacy of obligation to engineering excellence, cultural heritage and community leadership.
The visit ended with a photo session with Tor Jechira II, His Royal Highness, Engr. Chief Edward Ujege, FNSE, MFR and Her Royal Highness, Mrs. Theresa Ujege, Ngo U Jechira.

Reporting Engr. Dr. Sefa Asortse, MNSE
(NSE Makurdi Branch, Technical Secretary)

A POWERFUL DELEGATION OF NSE MAKURDI BRANCH WELCOMES THE NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LOWER BENUE RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY TO MAKURDI AT AGAN TOLL GATE

In a total and public display of the true spirit of unity, brotherhood and professional solidarity, Makurdi Engineers led by their Branch Chairman, Engr. Phelim Ukeyima Manger, MNSE, and accompanied by a galaxy of Fellows, Exco members and distinguished members which formed a powerful and strategic delegation that celebrated and welcomed to Makurdi at Agan Toll gate, one of their own, an eminent professional, a seasoned administrator, a leader and a talented Engineer, Engr. Terese Ninga, MNSE who had received his letter of appointment as Managing Director of Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority.

His appointment speaks volume of the huge milestone that NSE Makurdi Branch has achieved in the Nigerian engineering landscape. In his welcome address, the Branch Chairman Engr. Phelim Ukeyima Manger, MNSE congratulated Engr. Terese Ninga, MNSE on his appointment as MD, LBRBDA and expressed his delight and gratitude; first, to God and also to the Nigerian President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu for once again finding a Makurdi Engineer worthy of such an exalted position. He pledged the Branch’s total support to make the Managing Director succeed in his assignment.

The Managing Director of Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority Engineer, Engr. Terese Ninga, MNSE in his response, expressed great joy for the show of love, support and respect. He promised to deliver on his mandate by the grace of God, and make the Branch proud. He also acknowledged that, the Branch show of total support was a great inspiration and motivation.

NSE Makurdi Branch spoke with one voice, a public show of strength in unity. Engineers were strongly behind Engineers in their contribution to local and national development and transformation. NSE is an amalgamated family of illustrious Engineers. Once again, congratulation to Engr. Terese Ninga, MNSE.

Reporting Engr. Dr. Sefa Asortse, MNSE

(NSE Makurdi Branch, Technical Secretary)

NSE Makurdi Branch Delegation treated to a light refreshment by the MD at his residence in Makurdi.

NSE MAKURDI WORKSHOP ON AI

In line with the NSE Makurdi Branch Chairman Engr. P. U. Manger’s strategic vision to keep members abreast with current technological trends, a workshop on AI was held on 25th Tuesday, March, 2025 at COREN state office Makurdi, with 22 members in attendance. The resource person Engr. Dr. John Audu, MNSE explained the intrinsic anatomy of AI. He elucidated the types, the applications in engineering, tools used, the opportunities and challenges. A hand -on Session was the high point of the workshop. The various chatbots were also exposed. The effectiveness of Matlab was exposed as well. The empirical uses of Napkin, deep seek, and others were displayed.

The participants were very appreciative for the opportunity provided by the NSE Makurdi Branch Exco and the kind gesture of the resource person by sharing his knowledge.

In the closing remarks, the Branch’s Technical Secretary Engr. Dr. Sefa Asortse, MNSE appreciated the Branch Chairman for the vision to make this workshop possible and COREN state office for providing the venue. He also acknowledged the Branch Vice Chairman Engr. Fidelis Ukeh, FNSE for sponsoring 10 slots for participants. The Technical Secretary assured participants of more of these opportunities in future, intended to improve Engineering proficiency in line with EXCO’s professional development agenda.

The AI Workshp in session at COREN State Office, Makurdi

Engr. Dr Sefa Asortse MNSE

Technical Secretary