Minister of Steel Development Inducts Steel-Sector Experts into Steel Council
….Tasks them on driving Sectoral Reforms in line with the “Renewed Hope Agenda
The Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, on Friday, July 25, 2025, inducted the pioneer steel-sector experts into the National Steel Council, Abuja, urging them to drive the transformative reforms of the Council in line with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
Speaking during the induction ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Headquarters Rotunda, Abuja, the Honourable Minister said that the engagement of the new engaged staff is part of a transformative journey towards the revival of Nigeria’s steel sector.
Prince Audu said that the steel sector was pivotal to achieving the vision of Mr. President towards a $1 trillion Nigerian economy by 2030.
“The steel industry is a major determinant of the size and strength of any industrialised economy, and as pioneer staff of the Council, you have a unique responsibility to drive policy formulation, implementation, and enforcement of standards that will elevate this industry to global standards,” Prince Audu said.
Emphasising the need for accountability and high performance from the newly inducted staff, the Honourable Minister underscored the importance of results-driven service in achieving the Council’s strategic goals.
“We must begin to generate revenue to self-fund our operations and advance key initiatives that are vital towards reviving this critical sector. From licensing to the enforcement of minimum standards in steel production, your efforts will have a direct impact on national development and public safety, including the prevention of structural failures such as building collapses etc,” Prince Audu said.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the National Steel Council, Amb. Abdulkadir Musafari, described the induction as a bold step towards institutional reform and sectoral renewal. He noted that the calibre of professionals recruited reflects the ministry’s commitment to merit, innovation, and sustainable development.
“This induction is not just about expanding our workforce; it’s about building a solid foundation for a future-ready steel sector. The Honourable Minister has been relentless in championing reforms that prioritise results, integrity, and national interest, and we are proud to align with that vision,” he said.
Also speaking, Chairman of the National Steel Council, Prof. Abdulkarim Abubakar Kana SAN, commended the leadership of the Executive Secretary and the Honourable Minister, noting that their vision and pragmatism were instrumental in setting a strong foundation for the Council’s success.
“With the calibre of experts assembled, the involvement of capable consultants, and the dynamic leadership of the Honourable Minister, I am confident we will soon begin to see results. If we commit to the training and uphold integrity, we will have a positive story to tell,” Prof. Kana said.
In his remarks, THE minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar OON who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Donuma Ahmed, urged the inductees to treat the assignment with utmost seriousness, demonstrate excellence and integrity, and leave a mark that will shape the future of Nigeria’s steel sector.
The National Steel Council is an agency under the Ministry of Steel Development, tasked with overseeing the strategic direction, policy formulation, and standardisation of steel operations across the country.
In May 2025, the Ministry of Steel Development successfully trained and empowered 700 Nigerian youths in specialised areas of the steel and metals industry following an intensive Boot Camp held at the ministry’s Metallurgical Training Institute (MTI) in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The maiden edition of the Boot Camp training underscores the Ministry’s commitment under the leadership of the Honourable Minister to youth employment, youth empowerment, skills development, and the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s steel sector.
Lizzy Okoji
Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Steel Development,
Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu
July 26, 2025
