in Abuja

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has expressed strong support for indigenous oil sector companies, highlighting Lee Engineering & Construction Company Limited as a model of national excellence in the industry.

Speaking during a visit to Lee Engineering’s operational base in Warri, Delta State, the minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a self-reliant economy through the empowerment of local businesses.

Accompanied by Mr. Donald Wokoma, Registrar and Chief Executive of the Equipment Leasing Registration Authority (ELRA), Edun toured the company’s advanced fabrication yard, commending its significant contributions to domestic manufacturing and industrial progress.

A statement quoted Edun as assuring Lee Engineering’s management of President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering support, aligning with the administration’s focus on bolstering Nigeria’s economy by encouraging increased investment from domestic entrepreneurs.

The minister emphasised the economic advantages of reviving domestic crude oil refining, including the production of essential industrial raw materials to stimulate economic growth.

In response to Lee Engineering’s requests for government assistance, the minister reiterated the administration’s dedication to advancing local manufacturing, a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration, crucial for job creation and economic expansion.

“The government is fully committed to supporting indigenous companies like Lee Engineering, whose contributions are vital to Nigeria’s economic development,” Edun stated. “We believe in fostering a robust domestic manufacturing sector that will drive job creation and propel our nation forward,” he added.

In his remarks, Wokoma echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the minister’s visit and the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses. “

“We are thankful for the Honourable Minister’s recognition of our efforts in contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth,” Wokoma said. “We are eager to continue collaborating with the government to promote local content and drive industrial development,” he stressed.

Lee Engineering, led by Founder and Group Chairman Dr. Leemon Ikpea, is a leading Nigerian company specialising in Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Operations, and Maintenance (EPCOM) services within the oil, gas, and power sectors.

The minister’s visit, the company’s said, underscores the government’s determination to cultivate a self-reliant economy by empowering indigenous businesses and promoting local content in Nigeria’s energy and manufacturing sectors.

The partnership between the public and private sectors, it explained, is expected to yield substantial dividends, enabling companies like Lee Engineering to flourish and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth and development.