Minister of Power reinforces support for local manufacturers amid controversial contract award

In a bid to reaffirm the Nigerian government’s commitment to bolstering local industries, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, visited MEMMCOL, a domestic electricity meter manufacturer based in Mowe, Ogun State.

This visit comes amidst a storm of criticism surrounding the allocation of a N40 billion meter contract to a foreign company, bypassing indigenous meter manufacturers.

Addressing concerns raised over the controversial contract awarded to De Haryor Global, Minister Adelabu assured local meter manufacturers of the government’s unwavering dedication to promoting indigenous content and fostering growth within the sector.

He emphasized the imperative of supporting local producers by facilitating access to affordable financing and long-term capital, underscoring the significance of sustaining their operations.

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“We are committed to prioritizing patronage and ensuring the sustainability of local meter manufacturers, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s renewed agenda,” stated Adelabu.

He stressed the necessity of substantial local content in power sector projects and contracts, asserting that it is paramount for the viability of domestic producers.

Furthermore, Adelabu highlighted the urgency of developing local capacity and infrastructure to mitigate reliance on imports, advocating for comprehensive plans for full backward integration in manufacturing processes.

He emphasized the importance of technical training initiatives to enhance the skill sets of local workforce, emphasizing the need for a concerted effort towards achieving self-sufficiency in meter production.

The Minister’s visit and remarks underscore the government’s determination to empower indigenous industries and bridge the gap in metering infrastructure, signaling a proactive stance towards fostering economic growth and industrial development within Nigeria.