The Federal Government has emphasised the need to prioritise investment in skills development, infrastructure, research and development. Minister of State for Steel Development, Uba Ahmadu, said harnessing talents would unlock the full potential of the welding sector and drive sustainable development across the continent.
He stated this at The Welding Federation (TWF) Annual Assembly and Conference with the theme, ‘Materials Manufacturing Technologies Managing Capacity in Africa’, in Lagos yesterday.
“The demand for skilled welders across Africa continues to outpace supply. To bridge this gap, we must empower institutions like the esteemed Metallurgical Training Institute (MTI) in Onitsha and similar institutions, providing them with the resources and partnerships necessary to adapt their programmes to evolving industry needs and equip the next generation of welding professionals.”
“This is where Welding Federation Africa (WeldFA) emerges as a powerful force for positive change. By fostering collaboration between member countries, sharing best practices and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise, WeldFA can be a catalyst for growth across the continent’s welding sector,” he added.
According to the minister, the Nigerian government is actively exploring partnerships to modernise welding training facilities, develop industry-aligned curriculum and establish international certification programmes.
Chairman, Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), Nicholas Odinuwe, stated the need for unified certification within Africa, especially in welding and manufacturing industries.
Material manufacturing technologies, he added, plays a crucial role in driving innovation, enhancing efficiency and promoting sustainability across various industries, which fosters improved operational performance and reduces cost.
To him, managing capacity in Africa is a multifaceted challenge that requires collaboration, investment and strategic planning, which includes standardisation and unified certification.
Past President, Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Ibikunle Ogunbayo, representing the president of the association, Sadiq Abubakar, said fostering collaboration between academia, industry and government agencies would facilitate the exchange of best practices and development of indigenous welding solutions.
