Contractors assigned to various road projects in Ekiti State were sternly warned by the state government on Thursday to adhere to the local content regulations.
During a press briefing in Ado-Ekiti while overseeing the enforcement of the law, Olalekan Ijidale, the Director General of the Bureau of Local Content in Ekiti State, emphasized that the law mandates the employment of 40% Ekiti indigenes by contractors.
It was revealed that the contractors are required to engage both skilled and unskilled artisans from Ekiti State for the completion of projects financed by taxpayers.
In his statement, he expressed, “We are dedicated to implementing the amended local content law to enhance compliance. We have engaged with the contractors on multiple occasions to clarify and collaborate on how Ekiti can be involved in project execution within the state.”
“Ekiti State now has a law, approved by the governor and the House of Assembly, which mandates a minimum of 40% local content participation in project execution, and we are monitoring the level of compliance by our people,” he added.
He further noted, “Despite the government allocating substantial contracts funded by taxpayers, contractors must reciprocate by engaging our skilled and unskilled artisans in project execution.”
“We have observed that these companies often bring in workers from other states and even from Cotonou to work on projects in Ekiti and Nigeria. Meanwhile, many locals are still struggling to secure employment opportunities. Our aim is to reduce this disparity and ensure our artisans benefit. We are keen on promoting our skilled professionals,” he explained.
“Our governor strongly advocates for the patronage of our people, whether skilled or unskilled. Enforcement is necessary as many are not willing to comply,” he stated.
“We have initiated training and cooperation with professional bodies to guide our people towards utilizing their skills effectively. Certain companies have unfavorable conditions for our artisans, and we aim to mediate between the parties,” he mentioned.