…Commends D.G. Bureau of Local Content, Ijidale on performance
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has again stressed the need for the newly sworn-in Local Government/LCDA Chairmen to demonstrate commitment to bolstering the state economy through patronage of local contractors and artisans.
Governor Oyebanji stated this during the flag-off ceremony for the three days retreat organized for the new LG/LCDA chairmen held at Adetiloye Hall in Ado-Ekiti.
The Governor, who commended D.G. Bureau of Local Content, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, on the work done so far, directed all LGA/LCDA Chairmen to meet with the D.G. for an inventory of local contractors in their respective domains to engage them, stating that this is how Ekiti people could prosper.
“Direct labour is very attractive because it gives rooms for sharp practices. Meanwhile, the local artisans are there, they have nothing to do and we continue telling them that they cant work, that they don’t know what they are doing. When we don’t allow them to practise and make mistakes how will they improve”?
He insisted that LGA/LCDA Chairmen should shun direct labour as it is a means of siphoning funds from their LG/LCDA.
Mr Oyebanji further warned that whoever is caught engaging in the fraudulent practices would face the wrath of the law.
The Governor implored the newly sworn-in LGA/LCDA council bosses to help the state economy and its people by using local content to boost the economy.
In an interview, the DG, Bureau of Local Content, Mr. Olalekan Ijidale affirmed that his office had commenced full operation with registration of contractors, traders and artisans with the aim of ensuring proper monitoring of projects so as to ensure that contractors comply with local content law.
Ijidale noted that no going back on the plan to patronize local contractors as against some negative comments by some enemies of government.
He affirmed that in areas where the local contractors ans artisan do not have the required expertise or machinery to train and retrain until our people get required standard, the state would partner relevant oragnisations who must also comply with some of the local content requirements.