NIW Urges FG to Engage Local Welders for AKK Project

During the 2026 Annual General Meeting held in Lagos, the Nigerian Institute of Welding (NIW), chaired by Prof. Shehu Abdullahi Maa’ji, called on the federal government to engage local welders in the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project and other related initiatives. Prof. Maa’ji emphasized that despite the expertise and international certifications of Nigerian welders, they are often overlooked in favor of foreign workers, who earn significantly higher wages—up to N3 million compared to N200,000 to N300,000 for local welders.

He questioned the rationale behind hiring foreign welders when many have been trained by Nigerians. The NIW urged adherence to the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act to ensure local professionals are employed, which would help reduce costs and create jobs.

The institute has made strides in enhancing local welding capacity through the PTDF, with training centers across Nigeria. Prof. Maa’ji also called for improved governance and collaboration with government agencies and international bodies to promote vocational training and employment.