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“Reviving the struggling Ajaokuta Steel Company remains a top priority for the Federal Government, as the newly sworn-in Minister of Steel Development emphasized its importance as a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda.

The revival of the company, which has remained non-operational for the past three and a half decades, was a key directive from President Buhari, aimed at creating employment opportunities for the country’s youth and fostering economic prosperity.

In his inaugural address, Minister of Steel and Development, Shuaibu Audu, restated the government’s dedication to revitalizing the industry. During a press briefing in Abuja, he unveiled his administration’s plans, which encompass establishing a comprehensive roadmap for steel sector development, taking proactive measures to reinvigorate Ajaokuta steel operations, and proposing necessary legislative measures to regulate the steel sector.

He stated, ‘Our nation’s history has long recognized the significance of steel development, yet past leaders struggled to muster the determination needed to realize its potential. Synonymous with the Ajaokuta Steel Plant, a project that commenced over four decades ago, our goal is to initiate its operation and ensure the production of even a small steel sheet within the current administration’s tenure. Acknowledging that steel forms the foundation of national development, a successful endeavor in this realm could very well mark the start of our industrial revolution.'”

“Expanding on the subject, Audu went on to reveal that the establishment of the ministry aligns with President Tinubu’s mission to propel the nation’s comprehensive advancement.

During his speech, Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, called upon the ministry’s staff to adopt an outcomes-focused approach to fulfill the presidential directives for the sector.

Alake highlighted the significant decline in the oil-producing industry, which has traditionally contributed significantly to the government’s foreign exchange earnings. He emphasized that with the oil sector experiencing a downward trajectory, the solid minerals sector emerges as a pivotal driver of economic growth. He further underscored the international trade significance of this sector.

“As a testament to the sector’s importance to the President, he specifically entrusted me with the task of advancing his vision within this ministry. We remain steadfast in our determination to deliver tangible outcomes, irrespective of bureaucratic constraints. Our commitment lies in achieving results through legitimate means,” he declared.”