The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Abeokuta Branch has strongly advocated for the inclusion of local content in the recently announced $500 million investment by the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which aims to enhance power infrastructure along the Ogun-Lagos industrial corridor.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of NSE Abeokuta Branch, Engr Olumayowa Idowu, FNSE, the Branch emphasized the importance of adhering to local content policies in the execution of these projects. The organization strongly advocates for the involvement of local engineers, in line with Executive Order 5, to ensure that Nigerian expertise is central to these transformative initiatives. “By leveraging the Local Content Act, we can ensure that our engineers play a key role in executing these projects, fostering local expertise, and contributing to the economic empowerment of our communities,” said Idowu
This significant investment, announced by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, focuses on bolstering the transmission network in key industrial areas such as Agbara, Sagamu, and Mowe. The initiative is seen as a crucial step toward resolving the persistent power supply challenges faced by both industries and residents in these regions.
In its statement, the NSE Abeokuta Branch commended the proactive efforts of the Ministry of Power under Adelabu’s leadership. The statement highlighted the importance of ongoing projects under the Presidential Power Initiative and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), including the construction of new power transmission substations, upgrades to existing facilities, and the reconductoring of weakened high-voltage power lines. These projects are essential for increasing Ogun State’s power transmission capacity, which is vital for the continued growth of its industrial zones.
The NSE Abeokuta Branch also called on the Ogun State Government to take proactive measures to complement these federal initiatives. The branch specifically urged the state government to collaborate with gas pipeline operators to improve the infrastructure that supplies gas to power plants and industries within the state.
“Ensuring a steady and reliable supply of gas is crucial for maximizing the benefits of the upgraded power transmission infrastructure and sustaining industrial productivity,” Engr. Idowu stated.
As a professional body with vast expertise in engineering and infrastructure development, the NSE Abeokuta Branch reiterated its commitment to collaborating with both federal and state governments in executing these projects. The organization expressed its readiness to offer professional services and technical expertise to ensure the projects meet the highest standards and deliver sustainable, long-term benefits to the people and industries of Ogun State.
Engr. Idowu also applauded the efforts of JICA, the Ministry of Power, and all stakeholders involved, expressing optimism for continued collaboration to achieve the shared goal of improving power supply and driving economic growth in Ogun State.
