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* Says technical capacity exists in Nigeria
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The private sector has called for increased patronage of indigenous engineering firms by all tiers of government in order to strengthen local industries and reduce reliance on foreign contractors.
The Managing Director/CEO of NEWS Engineering Nigeria Limited, Josephine Nwaeze, made the appeal Friday during the company’s Annual Technical Board Meeting held in Abuja.
Nwaeze, who reflected on NEWS Engineering’s journey from a modest enterprise established in 1983 to a nationally recognised engineering powerhouse, said the technical expertise Nigeria often seeks abroad is abundantly available within local firms.
She noted that the company’s 42-year record of consistent operations, innovation and development is evidence of the capacity that exists within the country.
She recalled the company’s landmark contributions to the Nigerian power sector, including the construction of major transmission lines more than two decades ago.
“The first transmission line project from Gombe to Damaturu was executed by NEWS Engineering over 20 years ago,” she said. “It is difficult to find a company with such an extensive and verifiable footprint.”
Looking ahead, Nwaeze expressed optimism about the company’s prospects in 2026 but stressed the need for stronger government support for competent indigenous firms.
“For a company that has operated for 42 years and continues to be a major employer of labour, increased patronage is essential. As a woman leading in a male-dominated profession, I also believe encouragement and recognition matter, “she said.
During the meeting, NEWS Engineering announced sustained operational resilience and strategic progress across its core business segments in the period under review.
The company recorded significant momentum in project delivery, completing and securing certification for several power infrastructure and solar mini-grid projects. This, the management said, underscored NEWS Engineering’s reputation for technical competence and dependable service.
The firm said it also increased its footprint across major industry platforms, including the Nigerian International Energy Summit, Nigerian Oil and Gas Week and several renewable energy roundtables, confirming its growing role as a thought leader in the national energy ecosystem.
With strengthened governance structures, increased asset value and sustained stakeholder engagement, the company said it remains well-positioned for accelerated growth and greater impact within Nigeria’s power renewable energy value chain.
