Re-engineer Nigeria’s Steel Sector Now – Sen. Ndubueze Urges at National Steel Development Summit
By SILAS MEABE
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Steel Development, Senator (Engr.) Patrick Ndubueze, has called for the complete re-engineering of Nigeria’s steel and industrial sectors, describing them as the bedrock of true national development.
Speaking during an interview with journalists at the National Steel Development Summit held at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja, the senator lamented the poor state of key industrial assets—particularly the Ajaokuta Steel Company—and stressed the urgent need for action.
“We must re-engineer the steel and industrial sectors if we are serious about Nigeria’s development. Without steel, there is no foundation for industrialization,” Ndubueze said.
The senator, who recently led a Senate Committee visit to the Ajaokuta Steel Complex in Kogi State, recounted his dismay over the facility’s condition.
“Once in Ajaokuta, I cried for my beloved country,” he stated emotionally.
“Trillions of naira have been sunk into that facility, yet it remains idle. Even worse, it is currently owing over ₦2 billion in electricity bills despite producing nothing.”
Ndubueze emphasized that reviving the steel industry is not merely about restarting dormant facilities, but also about implementing strong corporate governance, conducting a status review of existing infrastructure, and engaging credible investors.
He called on the Federal Government and private sector stakeholders to partner in transforming the sector through clear policies, adequate funding, and transparent management.
The summit, which brought together stakeholders from across the country, focused on unlocking Nigeria’s vast mineral and steel resources to drive local manufacturing, create jobs, and reduce import dependency.
