Lagos: The National Institute of Welding (NIW) has urged the Federal Government to continue investing in welding technology and skills development to enhance industrial capacity and stimulate economic growth. The President of NIW, Dr. Solomon Edebiri, emphasized the importance of welding as a key driver of Nigeria’s infrastructural development and industrial growth during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Edebiri highlighted that welding plays an essential role in nearly all sectors of national development. He stated that the institute collaborates with relevant stakeholders to ensure that welding standards in Nigeria are aligned with global best practices. Dr. Edebiri recalled the development and approval of a National Welding Policy by the National Energy Council in October 2002, aimed at standardizing welding practices in the country.
Dr. Edebiri explained the critical importance of welding across various industries. In telecommunications, welding is vital for the fabrication and installation of masts that support network infrastructure nationwide. In the agricultural sector, welding facilitates the production of tractors and other equipment essential for soil preparation, harvesting, and processing. He pointed out that storage facilities like silos and warehouses largely depend on steel structures fabricated and installed through welding.
Furthermore, Dr. Edebiri noted that Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure heavily relies on welding, particularly in constructing ports, ferries, and pipelines used for transporting crude oil, gas, and other resources. He added that refineries and petrochemical facilities consist of networks of tanks and pipelines assembled using various welding techniques.
Dr. Edebiri stressed that welding is crucial not only for assembling industrial structures but also for ensuring their safety and durability. He mentioned that as a member of the International Institute of Welding, the National Institute of Welding is authorized to deliver welding training and certification in accordance with international guidelines.