Our ambitious goal is to create over 500,000 jobs within an operational steel industry before the end of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2nd term in office, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, Honourable Minister of Steel Development has said.
Progress has already been made, engaging nearly 200 youths in the steel industry nationwide within my first 4 months in office, with more initiatives in the pipeline.
In reflecting on the conclusion of 2023 and welcoming the dawn of 2024, I express gratitude to Almighty Allah and extend felicitations to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, as well as fellow Nigerians worldwide.
The year 2023 marked the commencement of a new era—’Renewed Hope’—under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership. With an eight-point agenda focusing on economic prosperity, job creation, poverty alleviation, and addressing security challenges, the vision set forth by Mr. President guided our national trajectory.
At the heart of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ is the revitalization of Nigeria’s steel industry, leading to the establishment of the Ministry of Steel Development in August 2023 with a specific mandate.
As we step into 2024, a unique opportunity arises for the industrialization of Nigeria and the revival of our steel industry. Plans are underway to design a roadmap for the resuscitation of the steel industry, encompassing a five-year plan for Nigeria’s steel sector revival and a three-year plan for the Ajaokuta steel plant.
International investors have shown commitment, pledging billions of dollars to develop Nigeria’s steel industry. President Tinubu’s efforts at securing these investments were highlighted at prestigious gatherings of World Political and Business Leaders, including the recent G20 summit in Delhi, India.
The Ministry of Steel Development is diligently working to create a conducive operating environment for both local and foreign investors. Measures such as increased government levies on steel importation are being considered to promote import substitution.
I appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for entrusting me with the opportunity to serve our great country. Reviving a challenging and ailing industry requires significant effort, and by the grace of God, we are committed to delivering the President’s vision for the Steel Industry in Nigeria.
As we embark on this new year, I wish you all a happy and prosperous 2024 filled with good health, peace, and progress.
