The Nigerian Senate has commenced a sweeping investigation into the poor enforcement of Local Content laws across key sectors of the economy, with a warning that defaulters will face sanctions.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, made this known during a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday. He noted that the committee is currently reviewing multiple petitions from indigenous operators alleging non-compliance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGIC) Act of 2010, the Presidential Executive Order No. 5 of 2018, and the Nigeria First Policy (2025).
“All stakeholders are expected to ensure strict compliance with Local Content laws and regulations in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Senator Thomas said.
He highlighted key concerns raised in the petitions, including irregularities in contract awards, poor execution of projects, lack of human capital development, and failure to transfer technology to local operators.
“The Committee is now investigating delayed progress in local capacity development for fabrication, marine operations, and engineering; underinvestment in job creation and workforce training; and a general pattern of missed opportunities for domestic technological advancement,” he added.
Thomas decried the slow pace of implementation, warning that it undermines Nigeria’s ability to build competitive industries, create jobs, and retain value within the country.
As part of the probe, the Committee has begun a comprehensive review of existing waivers, content plans, and compliance frameworks. It will also engage with relevant regulatory bodies and private companies to assess the impact of the alleged lapses.
“We will not hesitate to enforce sanctions where negligence or complicity is established,” Thomas warned.
He urged members of the public, local contractors, and industry stakeholders to report any breaches of Local Content laws, assuring that their complaints will be investigated thoroughly.
