HOUSE OF REPS COMMITTEE CALLS FOR OPERATION OF AJAOKUTA STEEL MILL

The House of Representatives Committee on Steel has called for concerted efforts by relevant authorities to ensure that the Ajaokuta Steel Mill located in Kogi State becomes fully operational.

The Chairman of the committee, Hon Abdullahi Halims made the call today when he paid oversight visit with other members of the committee to the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development in Abuja.

He said that the purpose of the visitation was to view the activities and effectiveness of the ministry and its agencies.

He also said that the visitation was to seek to gather information, identify challenges, build synergy, and look for ways to resolve issues that need government input through legislative actions. 

The lawmaker pointed out that the operation of the steel company would significantly create job opportunities, help to address insecurity and contribute to the general growth of the country.

He stated that the enormous challenges in human, social and economic development manifesting in the increasing level of violence, insecurity, deepening poverty and inequalities are demoralising and capable of inspiring action amongst political leaders.

 “The country is enmeshed in political activities geared towards shaping the nation for the better, and visits such as this will broaden the horizon of political gladiators” he said  

He assured that the committee will help to see how government agencies through budgetary releases can foster and build confidence in the teeming youth through legislative engagements”

He urged the ministry to work closely with the committee, so that they can together explore more opportunities for positive growth.

The Minister of State in the ministry, Senator Gbemisola Saraki lamented that so far, no steel has been developed at the Mill.

She said that the ministry is committed to working with relevant authorities to ensure it delivers on its mandate.