The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has thrown his weight behind the Senate’s push for stricter enforcement of Local Content laws, describing ongoing violations as a national crisis that continues to rob Nigerian workers of their rights and opportunities.
During a courtesy visit by the Senate Committee on Local Content, led by its Chairman, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, Ajaero lamented that many companies continue to violate Local Content provisions with impunity, employing hundreds of expatriates while sidelining qualified Nigerians.
“We need a clear strategy to enhance monitoring because this problem has persisted for too long.
“I’m with you in this cause to save this country from this calamity. Some of these violators appear untouchable, even when taken to court. Who enforces the law?” Ajaero asked.
The labour leader expressed concern that, despite the existence of robust legislation such as the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGIC) Act, poor enforcement has allowed widespread abuse to continue, including salary discrimination and job displacement of Nigerians by foreign workers.
“While we complain about unemployment, expatriates earn double and Nigerian workers are treated as second-class citizens in their own country. This discrimination must stop,” he said.
Ajaero called for the creation of a centralised databank to document cases of violations and convictions, stressing that there must be public accountability. “We need to keep a record of how many convictions have been secured. That’s the only way to measure progress,” he said.
He also raised questions over the commitment of some government agencies, alleging that compromised enforcement officers were part of the problem. “When those meant to enforce the law become compromised, the entire system breaks down,” he stated.
Highlighting cases where refineries and large industrial projects are staffed predominantly by foreigners, the NLC president said various unions within the Congress will begin compiling and submitting detailed reports to assist the Senate Committee in its oversight duties.
“There’s a lot of good work being done under the Local Content policy in the oil and gas sector, but we are not there yet. We must go further to stop capital flight and empower our people,” he added.
The Senate committee therefore pledged to review all complaints and investigate reported violations, as part of its renewed push to enforce compliance and protect Nigerian jobs.
