Solewant Group success is evidence of local content support and innovation — GMD, Solomon Ewanehi
With over 24 years of experience, Solewant Group has thrived, thanks to the Nigerian Content Law, regulatory support, and patriotism-fueled optimism. Driven by a commitment to innovation, technology, local content development, and strong partnerships, Group Managing Director, Solewant Group, Solomon Ewanehi in a conversation with our Correspondent explores the future of the foremost indigenous player in the oil sector. Excerpts:
How has the Nigerian Content Law impacted your operations, and what role has it played in the growth and success of Solewant Group as an indigenous player in the oil sector?
The Nigerian Content Law, particularly the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, has had a significant and transformative impact on our operations at Solewant Group. As a prominent indigenous player in the oil and gas sector, we have not only benefited from this legislation but have also actively supported its objectives.
It has served as a catalyst for the development of local capacity, which closely aligns with our mission to encourage indigenous participation. Due to the fact that the law mandates that local companies be prioritised for contracts, goods, and services, this has greatly increased the demand for our pipeline coating solutions, fabrication services, and industrial innovations. As a result, we have had the opportunity to demonstrate our world-class capabilities and establish ourselves as a dependable partner for international oil companies (IOCs) and national oil companies (NOCs).
I must add that it has equally driven substantial investments in infrastructure and technology within Solewant Group. In order to comply with the stringent requirements of the NOGICD Act, we have made significant investments in our state-of-the-art Solewant Industrial Area located in Alode, Eleme, Onne, Rivers State. This facility, equipped with advanced pipeline coating technologies and fabrication capabilities, stands as a testament to the value of local content in strengthening industrial capacity.
The law has also had a notable impact on job creation and skills development. Through our Solewant Energy Training Institute (SETI), we are not only providing Nigerians with the necessary skills to succeed in the energy sector, but we are also helping to reduce unemployment and mitigate the brain drain. We are proud to report that over 90% of our workforce is Nigerian, a direct result of the enabling environment fostered by the local content law.
It has facilitated a collaborative environment between indigenous companies and foreign partners. For example, our partnerships with international technology providers for coating materials and solutions have been made possible through the NOGICD Act’s framework for technology transfer. This has allowed us to incorporate global best practices while remaining steadfast in our commitment to local content.
It does not rule out certain challenges though, particularly in terms of the need for ongoing upgrades to comply with its evolving requirements. That said, we view these challenges as opportunities for innovation and adaptation, ensuring that Solewant Group continues to lead the way in the industry.
We are thankful that the Nigerian Content Law has not only enhanced our operations but has also reinforced our position as a key player in Nigeria’s energy sector. It has provided us with a platform to prove that local companies can compete on a global scale while driving sustainable economic growth and industrial development in the country.
Beyond the law, what other state apparatus have been involved in the smooth sailing of Solewant Group to meet global standards?
We are grateful to have received significant support from key stakeholders like the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), NNPC Limited, and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). Their backing has been instrumental in our growth and ability to meet industry demands effectively.
Starting with the NCDMB, they have played a crucial role in driving the enforcement of local content, which aligns seamlessly with the mission of Solewant Group. We are, in essence, a product of Nigerian content. Through their initiatives in capacity building, research and development support, and their encouragement for local companies to engage in high-value projects, the NCDMB has empowered indigenous businesses like ours. Their assistance in fostering a conducive regulatory environment has enabled us to expand our state-of-the-art industrial facility in Onne and enhance our local workforce. Their collaborative approach ensures that companies such as Solewant are well-positioned to deliver world-class solutions while fully complying with local content mandates. In 2022, the NCDMB recognised Solewant Group as the champion of local content.
In relation to the NNPC Limited, we have witnessed strong advocacy for partnerships with indigenous companies. We are beneficiaries of their backing for local content suppliers in pipeline coating, fabrication, and maintenance projects. NNPC’s shift towards becoming a commercially driven entity has also created new opportunities for collaboration, particularly in sectors such as gas infrastructure, which is vital for Nigeria’s energy transition.
Without fail, the NUPRC has also made a significant contribution, in matters of streamlining regulatory compliance processes. They provided clear frameworks for standards and best practices, enabling companies like ours to operate with confidence and clarity. NUPRC’s commitment to creating a level playing field for indigenous businesses enhanced our ability to participate in upstream projects, allowing us to demonstrate our expertise in pipeline protection, coating, and fabrication.
There is always room for improvement, as always. We would welcome further collaboration in areas such as the simplification of policies, faster project approvals, and increased direct investment in research and development to promote greater innovation. More targeted support in these areas would enable companies like Solewant to make an even greater contribution to Nigeria’s energy sector.
I cannot deny that the combined support from these institutions has been invaluable to our growth, and we are eager to strengthen these partnerships. Together, we can achieve the shared goal of developing a robust and sustainable energy sector driven by local capacity and innovation.
How did winning the Indigenous African Oil & Gas Contractor of the Year Award at the Offshore Africa Magazine’s Africa Energy Summit reflect your company’s journey, and what does it mean for your future growth and contribution to Africa’s energy sector?
Receiving the Indigenous African Oil & Gas Contractor of the Year Award at the Offshore Africa Magazine’s Africa Energy Summit last June in Accra was an immense privilege for Solewant Group. While this recognition is deeply rewarding, it also marks a pivotal moment in our 24-year journey, reflecting our growth, perseverance, and dedication to excellence. It is not only a celebration of our achievements but also a reminder of the path we have taken and the journey that still lies ahead.
Over the past two decades, we have encountered a range of challenges, from market fluctuations and geopolitical changes to the ever-evolving demands of the oil and gas industry. Nevertheless, through each of these obstacles, we have stayed true to our core mission: to provide innovative and dependable pipe and metals fabrication and coating solutions to our clients across Africa and beyond. These accolades have further strengthened our commitment to continuous improvement, as they hold us accountable to the high standards we have set for both ourselves and our industry.
We understand that in such a competitive field, complacency is the greatest threat to progress. Our dedication to ongoing improvement is evident in the investments we have made in advanced technology, as well as in the continuous training and development of our workforce. Over the years, we have earned a reputation for excellence not by resting on our past successes, but by consistently evaluating and refining our service delivery. As such, the awards serve not only as recognition of our previous accomplishments but also as a powerful motivator to achieve even greater things.
At Solewant Group, our focus extends beyond simply improving the quality of our services; we are also committed to contributing to the sustainable development of Africa’s energy sector. With the recognition of these awards, we are more determined than ever to push the boundaries of innovation, embrace cutting-edge technologies, and enhance operational efficiency. We believe that this approach will not only solidify our position in the market but also enable us to support the continued growth of the energy industry on the continent.
Throughout all our efforts, we remain deeply committed to building long-lasting relationships with our clients, ensuring they receive the maximum value from our solutions. These awards are a testament to the trust and confidence our clients have placed in us over the years, and we are dedicated to repaying that trust through continued commitment, transparency, and exceptional service.
We are really excited about the future, especially as we apply the knowledge, skills, and experience we have gained over the past 24 years. These honours have reinforced our belief in the power of teamwork, the importance of visionary leadership, and the value of integrity in all aspects of our operations. As we continue to lead in Africa’s energy sector, we will remain focused on creating a lasting impact that goes beyond immediate accolades, as we know that true success is measured by the positive changes we bring to the industry and the communities we serve.