Lawyer Raises Concerns Over Foreign Contractors’ Prevalence in Nigeria
_Secular Advocacy TV News Desk_
A Lawyer, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, Special Counsel to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has raised critical questions over the dominance of foreign firms in Nigeria’s road construction sector after a recent observation that many ongoing projects are being executed by non-indigenous engineers.
In viral post on his official X handle, Ejimakor voiced out this concern following his travel across several States of the Nigeria’s federation, noting that a significant number of road contractors and engineers on site appeared to be white expatriates.
“What happened to our indigenous engineers? Is it that they’re not trained enough to build roads? Or is it self-discrimination? Where’s the national pride?” He quizzed.
The development has sparked heated debate over local content in public infrastructure. Critics argue that over-reliance on foreign contractors limits opportunities for Nigerian engineers and contractors, while proponents contend that foreign firms are often engaged due to technical capacity, funding arrangements, or project specifications tied to donor financing.
The Federal Ministry of Works and the Bureau of Public Procurement have, in the past, emphasised compliance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act and similar local content policies, which mandate preference for indigenous firms where capacity exists.
As of press time, the Ministry of Works headed by Senator David Nweze Umahi has not responded to the concerns raised by Ejimakor. Industry stakeholders averred that a crucial review of current contract awards and the capacity of local engineering firms crucial to address the issue.