The federal government has launched the National Policy on Welding and Welding-Related Fields to conserve about ten billion dollars in capital flight from certified welder imports.
While launching the policy, Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, said that it would address the long-standing issue of neglect and lack of regulation in the welding sector.
He stated that the focus on foreign accreditation has marginalised local welding professionals, denying them opportunities to offer their skills.
“It is concerning that the lack of internationally recognised certification of industry practitioners has prevented our indigenous welding sector, which should be making a substantial contribution to Nigeria’s economy, from exploiting myriads of opportunities, particularly in the oil and gas industry and exporting them to an influx of foreign welding personnel.
“Because the global welding market emphasises international certification of its service suppliers, there is little room for our local welding professionals to showcase their talents and potential unless we consciously and progressively certify existing capacities and regulate the practice,” he said.
The minister added that the federal government will work with the Nigerian Institute of Welding to establish six Centres of Welding Excellence across the country’s six geopolitical zones, providing training and ISO certification to local welders and empowering them to work locally and internationally.
James Sule, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, stated that welding practice around the world is vital since it has a direct impact on the economy of any nation, developed or developing.
“Welding is the bedrock of every socio-economic development and sustainability, and, therefore, as a country, there is the need to encourage and promote the welding practice to maximise the inherent potentials of this untapped sector of the Nigerian economy,” he remarked.
