Minister Audu unveils bold roadmap to cut $4bn steel import bill, boost local production, and create jobs under Renewed Hope Agenda
In Abuja, Nigeria, a landmark move aimed at jumpstarting Nigeria’s long-stalled industrialisation efforts, the Federal Government has officially commissioned the new headquarters of the National Steel Council (NSC) in Abuja and engaged pioneer technical experts to spearhead immediate operations within the sector.
The Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, who presided over the commissioning ceremony, declared the event a major step in institutionalising reforms that are essential for reviving Nigeria’s ailing steel industry. This move aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises job creation, economic diversification, and infrastructural growth.
“The commissioning of this headquarters is not just a symbolic gesture. It represents a turning point for Nigeria’s industrial future,” said Prince Audu. “By engaging pioneer skilled-sector staff, we’re laying the groundwork for a revived steel sector that can power industries and create jobs.”
The Honourable Minister stressed that revamping the steel sector is not optional but a national economic imperative, pointing out that Nigeria currently spends over $4 billion annually on steel imports resources he said should be retained within the country to fuel local industries and stimulate employment.
He charged the National Steel Council to serve as the engine room of the Ministry of Steel Development, with three core mandates:
1. Collaborate with the Ministry to streamline commercial and technical regulations.
2. Drive the implementation of a comprehensive roadmap to reduce steel imports through increased local production.
3. Pursue strategic partnerships that would transform the sector into a hub for innovation and job creation.
Prince Audu praised the Council’s leadership for their resilience in the face of funding and operational constraints, emphasizing that the new headquarters would function as a command centre for Nigeria’s industrial revolution.
In his address, Ambassador Abdulkadir Musafari, Executive Secretary of the National Steel Council, described the occasion as a milestone moment and commended the Minister for his reform-driven leadership. He noted that the new office symbolizes a renewed commitment to restoring Nigeria’s steel capacity under the current administration.
Echoing this sentiment, Professor Abdulkarim Abubakar Kana SAN, Chairman of the Council, reaffirmed the Council’s vision to develop a globally competitive steel industry. He projected that effective regulatory enforcement and licensing could generate up to N60 billion annually in revenue for the Federal Government.
“Our long-term vision includes establishing state-of-the-art testing laboratories, research institutions, and regulatory enforcement centres,” Prof. Kana stated. “These facilities will uphold global standards and drive excellence in local steel production.”
The event drew dignitaries from across the steel and industrial development landscape, including Dr Chris Osa Isokponwu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry; Prof. Nasir Naeem Abdulsalam, Managing Director of Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited; and key members of the National Assembly and the NSC Board. The commissioning and activation of the National Steel Council mark a renewed commitment
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