By Newsshelve correspondent.
Stakeholders in the iron and steel sector in Nigeria have expressed concerns regarding the investigation of Ajaokuta Steel and National Iron Ore Mining Company (NIOMCO) from 2008 to the present.
They believe that President Bola Tinubu and Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, will be remembered favorably if they conduct a thorough investigation into the activities of these dormant companies.
Dr. Nicholas Okonkwo, Chairman of the Nigerian Steel and Automotive Industry Forum, stated that the attempts by Kogi monarchs to halt the investigation of Ajaokuta Steel Company will not succeed. He emphasized the importance of conducting a proper investigation.
At the 4th Ajaokuta Steel Plant Revival Summit in Abuja, speakers distanced themselves from the traditional rulers and assured the public that President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio would ensure a thorough investigation of Ajaokuta Steel Company.
The traditional rulers from the Ebira ethnic group wrote a letter to Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, urging Kogi State indigenes in the National Assembly to work for the common good of Ebiraland, Kogi State, and Nigeria as a whole.
They emphasized the need for caution and statesmanship in handling the issue of Ajaokuta Steel Plant and the National Iron Ore Mining Company, Itakpe.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is actively working towards the revival of Ajaokuta Steel Company and the National Iron Ore Mining Company, Itakpe. She recently initiated a motion to investigate alleged corruption and inefficiency at these companies.
Stakeholders are calling for an investigation into the $496 payment allegedly made to Mr. Pramod Mittal, Chairman of Global Infrastructural Holdings LTD (GINL) by the Federal Government in September 2022. They also advocate for a review of existing policies and laws on steel development in Nigeria, the dissolution of the sole administratorship of Ajaokuta Steel Company, and the promotion of good corporate governance.
The traditional rulers urged legislators to collaborate with the Minister of Steel Development, the management of the two companies, and stakeholders to strengthen President Bola Tinubu’s efforts in ensuring the success of Ajaokuta Steel Plant.
They highlighted the benefits of reviving Ajaokuta Steel Company and the National Iron Ore Mining Company, Itakpe, including employment generation, technological advancements, and economic growth. They praised President Tinubu for his development initiatives and restoration of the Steel Development Ministry.
In conclusion, the traditional rulers emphasized the importance of collaboration, support for government initiatives, and the need to avoid controversies that could hinder the progress of Ajaokuta Steel Company and Itakpe Iron Ore Mining Company.
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