The Nigerian Society of Engineers has called on the Federal Government to fully patronise local engineers in line with Executive Order 5. The society urges the complete implementation of the order, which is designed to promote local content in technological innovation and to give Nigerian engineers access to procurement opportunities in contracts.
President of the society, Tasiu Gidari‑Wudil, made the appeal during a press conference on Saturday, marking World Engineering Day. He reminded the audience that on 2 February 2018, President Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd) signed Executive Order 5 to guide the planning and execution of projects, promote Nigerian content in contracts, and advance science, engineering, and technology.
Speaking to journalists, Wudil expressed disappointment that the order has not effectively reduced the number of expatriates granted work permits. He noted that the act, which aims to produce more experts, identify local skilled manpower, and mentor younger generations, has been neglected. “We have noticed over the years that certain critical sections of Executive Order 5 are not being fully implemented,” he said.
The order stipulates that if a skill is missing in Nigeria, a contractor may bring in expatriates, but two Nigerian engineers must understudy them. Wudil reported that, despite extensive databases of engineers, technologists, and artisans in Nigeria, many construction sites across the country still employ expatriates of equal or even lesser qualifications. “We do not find this acceptable,” he asserted, urging relevant authorities to address this anomaly and ensure full enforcement of the provisions of Executive Order 5.
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