By James Isaac, Abuja
The Senate Committee on Local Content has pledged to promote the development and utilization of Nigerian content across critical sectors, with the newly appointed Chairman, Senator Joel-Onowokpo Thomas (Delta South), vow to ensure maximum benefits for Nigerians.
Speaking after his assumption of office, Senator Joel-Onowokpo reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to strict adherence to its mandate, particularly in the Oil and Gas sector. He assured that the committee would foster the growth of local businesses, create job opportunities, and develop critical assets and skills in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
The Chairman further revealed that the committee’s focus would extend beyond the Oil and Gas sector to non-oil industries such as construction and manufacturing, to harness local potential and enhance economic growth.
“The benefits of local content include job creation, increased government revenue, improved balance of payments, and reduced dependence on foreign goods and services,” Senator Joel-Onowokpo stated.
To prevent the displacement of Nigerian workers, he announced that the committee would liaise with the Nigeria Immigration Service to regulate the influx of expatriates into jobs that can be handled locally.
He appealed for cooperation and active participation from committee members, emphasizing the need for robust contributions to achieve set objectives.
Senator Joel-Onowokpo took over the chairmanship of the Local Content Committee following the recent adjustment of Senate Committees by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
