The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has appointed Engr. Prof. Okorie Austine Uche as Registrar.
His appointment takes effect from March 2025, following approval at the 183rd Ordinary Council Meeting held in January 2025.
He succeeds Engr. Adisa Bello, whose tenure as Registrar has successfully ended after years of dedicated professional service.
Prof. Uche previously served as a Professor of Civil/Structural Engineering at Bayero University, Kano, with over three decades of experience.
He has significantly contributed to engineering education, research, and administration across Nigeria through various professional and academic engagements.
Academic and Professional Journey
Born August 1, 1965, in Amuda-Isuochi, Abia State, Prof. Uche attended Development Primary School, Owerri, and later Isuochi Secondary School for his early education.
He obtained an HND Distinction in Agricultural Engineering from Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, where he emerged as the valedictorian.
He later earned a B.Eng. in Civil Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, graduating as the best student in his class.
He pursued further education, obtaining an M.Sc. in Civil Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 2000. In 2008, he completed a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at the same prestigious university.
Contributions to Engineering
Since joining Bayero University in 2001, Prof. Uche has trained over 1,000 undergraduate and 300 postgraduate students across various engineering disciplines. His research portfolio includes over 90 publications in internationally recognized engineering journals and conferences worldwide.
He is a COREN-registered engineer and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (FNICE), demonstrating professional commitment. His affiliations also include American Concrete Institute (ACI) and Materials Society of Nigeria, strengthening his global engineering network.
Prof. Uche has held several leadership roles, including serving as Chairman of NSE Kano and Kabuga Branches, showcasing his administrative expertise. Since 2014, he has actively participated in COREN Council committees, influencing engineering policies across Nigeria.
Faith and Community Involvement
Beyond engineering, Prof. Uche serves as Diocesan Technical Adviser and Lay President of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Kano Diocese. He holds the title of Worthy Knight of John Wesley (KJW), demonstrating his strong religious commitment.
Prof. Uche is married to Lady Ngozi Uche, and they are blessed with four children, maintaining a balanced family life.
Seamless Leadership Transition
To ensure smooth leadership transition, COREN organized an Orientation Workshop for incoming and outgoing Registrars, management, and regional officers. The event introduced the new Registrar to COREN’s vision, objectives, and regulatory roadmap.
COREN believes Prof. Uche’s experience, leadership, and expertise will strengthen engineering regulation and professional development across Nigeria’s engineering sector. His appointment underscores COREN’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation.
