The newly inaugurated Minister for Steel Development, Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has assured the ministry staff and Nigerians of his desire to bring about a new paradigm shift in the sector.
Audu made this assertion today during his address to the board of directors of the ministry, upon assuming office. According to Audu, previous administrations lacked the determination to achieve such dynamics. He noted that the establishment of the Ministry for Steel Development by President Bola Tinubu is a testament to the presidency’s commitment to the nation’s growth and development.
Audu remarked, “It’s undeniable that steel development in Nigeria is closely tied to the Ajaokuta factory, which started construction over forty years ago but unfortunately remains incomplete and uncommissioned. This project was conceived to usher in an era of industrial and social advancement through its connections to other steel plants and the broader industrial sectors”.
He went on to outline his roadmap for advancing the steel sector, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome he received from the board of directors. Audu urged them to channel their focus towards the steel industry to align with the government’s agenda.
The minister issued a wake-up call for the revitalization and repositioning of Nigeria’s steel industry, underlining its pivotal role in the nation’s industrialisation. Audu asserted, “Steel forms the foundation of industrialisation in any nation. If we get this right, it could mark the beginning of an industrial revolution in Nigeria. Steel is not only technology, but it also holds the power to transform aviation and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s industrialization and development”.
He pledged to breathe life into dormant projects within the steel sector while assuring stakeholders that they would be actively engaged in the process of rejuvenating the industry.
In response, the Minister for Solid Materials, Dele Alake identified solid minerals as the next economic driving force for Nigeria, especially as the prominence of crude oil gradually diminishes. He stressed the need for a change in attitude among the directors to achieve the desired outcomes. Alake added that he will unveil his comprehensive plans once he has settled fully into his role.
Additionally, the Honourable Minister of State for Steel and Development, Maigari Ahmadu applauded the civil servants for their efforts in advancing the ministry’s goals. He implored all stakeholders to work together to restructure the sector and fulfill the agenda for a renewed national hope.
