"Denied Opportunities": Nigerian Welders Raise Alarm Over Expatriates Taking Local Jobs

The National Union of Nigerian Welders (NUNIWE) has raised concerns over the increasing number of expatriates taking over welding jobs in the country, leading to denied opportunities for local workers. NUNIWE President Comrade Peter Iniobong highlighted the influx of skilled workers from China, India, Indonesia, and Turkey, displacing qualified Nigerian welders and violating employment quotas.

The union called on President Bola Ahmed to create a conducive environment for the steel industry to promote industrialization and ensure fair job opportunities for Nigerians. They also emphasized the need for increased skill training, better regulatory frameworks, and protection of local welders' interests.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) supported NUNIWE's concerns, condemning the exploitation of informal sector workers and advocating for unionization to guarantee fair treatment and workplace safety. The union's agenda includes tracking legitimate job openings and addressing workplace maltreatment to ensure the sector's development and protect local welders' rights.