The Gombe State Government has pledged to fully implement the recommendations of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) on the collapse of the reinforced concrete cantilever entrance canopy at the ongoing State House of Assembly Complex. Deputy Governor Manassah Jatau made the commitment while receiving the COREN investigation report. The report recommended continuation of construction work under enhanced professional supervision and strict adherence to approved engineering standards.
According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Jack Tasha, Jatau said the government prioritizes quality and safety over project completion. He emphasized the importance of professional oversight and compliance with approved specifications in public infrastructure execution. The deputy governor assured the COREN panel that the contractor could continue with the project under enhanced supervision and with the active engagement of qualified professionals.
The COREN investigation, led by National Registrar Okorie Austin Uche, established that the collapse occurred on July 24, 2026, while fresh concrete was being placed on the canopy. The panel held extensive interactive sessions with professionals, contractors, and stakeholders connected to the project, reviewing critical project documents and technical components. The investigation identified the erection of temporary formwork and construction sequence as probable contributing factors to the collapse.
The panel found that the consulting structural engineer was qualified, but the contractor failed to engage registered professionals, including engineers and architects. However, tests on the concrete and reinforcement showed that the standing structure was technically adequate. COREN's Uche said the integrity test conducted after the collapse indicated that the standing structure was in good condition.
The investigation also revealed that the working drawings had not received approval from any relevant approval authority. Despite this, an evaluation of submitted concrete test results showed adequate compressive strength, and integrity tests supported this finding. The quality and sizes of reinforcement bars were consistent with those specified in the structural drawings.
Chairman of the investigative panel, Isyaka Lawan, said the investigation took two months, largely due to the time required to evacuate the collapsed structure. Lawan expressed hope that the report would prevent a recurrence and contribute to improved professional standards in public project execution. COREN reaffirmed its commitment to regulating engineering practice in Nigeria and upholding professional standards and safety.
The Gombe State Government will carefully study the recommendations and implement them to their logical conclusion. The government will use lessons from the incident to strengthen quality control, supervision, and compliance with building and engineering standards across the state. Deputy Governor Jatau commended the investigative panel for its assessment and assured citizens that the government prioritizes their safety and welfare.
Key points
- Gombe State government pledges to implement COREN recommendations on the collapsed State House of Assembly Complex.
- Investigation identified temporary formwork and construction sequence as probable contributing factors to the collapse.
- COREN reaffirms commitment to regulating engineering practice in Nigeria and upholding professional standards and safety.
