The Minister of State for the Ministry of Steel Development, Hon. Uba Ahmadu has assured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s commitment to leaving a lasting legacy through the development of a robust and functional Steel Sector.
The minister made this pledge during a one-day familiarisation tour of the National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency (NSRMEA) in Kaduna.
Accompanied by the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Steel Development/Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Mary Ogbe, Ahmadu underscored the significance of the steel sector in the industrialisation of any nation. He particularly highlighted the pivotal role played by the National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency, emphasising that the pursuit of steel raw materials is not merely an industrial endeavour but a cornerstone of progress, infrastructure, innovation and national development.
Expressing the untapped potential within the country’s resources, Ahmadu stated that these resources hold the key to potential prosperity for Nigeria. He acknowledged the dedication of the National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency to exploration, innovation and sustainable mining practices, noting that the agency’s efforts are crucial in unlocking the nation’s treasures.
The minister assured the agency of the ministry’s unwavering commitment and support to enhance its operations and drive progress. He emphasized the Federal Government’s backing to foster partnerships, invest in research, and create an ecosystem conducive to the sustainable development of the nation’s mineral resources.
Ogbe echoed the ministry’s dedication to reviving and optimizing the steel sector. She affirmed that the ministry, led by capable ministers, remained determined to fulfill its mandate. Ogbe solicited the support of all stakeholders, urging them to contribute their best efforts to ensure the resurgence of the sector.
The NSRMEA director-general, Kolawole Ogunbiyi provided insights into the status of the Obi-Lafia coal in Nasarawa State. He emphasised the need for its full development to make it economically viable.
Ogunbiyi explained that in-seam exploration is essential to determine the feasibility of mining the coal resources. He appealed to the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Steel Development, to allocate a special intervention fund to complete the Obi-Lafia coal project, asserting that it would significantly reduce the importation of cooking coal.
The minister of state’s visit to the NSRMEA, accompanied by the permanent secretary, signified the government’s commitment to revitalising the steel sector and ensuring its optimal functionality. The tour highlights the importance attached to the nation’s steel resources and the determination to leverage them for economic growth and prosperity.
