The new permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Steel Development (FMSD), Dr. Chris Isokpunwu has pledged to enhance and stimulate the development of Nigeria’s steel sector to realise its full potential.
Osa made this commitment during the handover ceremony from the former permanent secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, on Monday, July 29, 2024, at the ministry’s headquarters.
Osa expressed his gratitude to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu GCFR for appointing him as permanent secretary. He urged the management and staff to work diligently towards the goal of leveraging the steel sector for national industrialisation and addressing some of the country’s socio-economic challenges.
During the ceremony, the new permanent secretary commended his predecessor, Ogbe for her leadership since the ministry’s inception in August 2023. He assured that he would build on her accomplishments to further the ministry’s objectives. Osa highlighted the critical role of the steel sector in national development and emphasised the need for concerted efforts to achieve the ministry’s goals.
In her address, Ogbe stressed the importance of a functional steel industry for national industrialisation. She expressed confidence in Osa’s capability and described him as a seasoned administrator with an impressive track record. Ogbe encouraged the ministry’s management and staff to support Osa in driving the growth of the steel and metal sector.
A statement by the ministry’s head of press and public relations signed by Ijomah Opia, included remarks from the director of metallurgical raw materials development and investment promotion, Mr. Imeh Ikrikpo. In his vote of thanks, Ikrikpo welcomed Osa and assured him of the management and staff’s full support.
Osa’s appointment marks a new chapter for the Ministry of Steel Development, with a renewed focus on maximising the sector’s contributions to Nigeria’s industrial and socio-economic development.
