Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has restated the commitment of his administration to the revitalization of Ajaokuta Steel Company, describing it as central to the state’s economic future and industrial development.
The Governor made this known at the Palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where he was a special guest as the new management of the company paid courtesy visit on the Ohinoyi as part of on-ongoing familiarization tour of the host community.
The Governor who was represented by his Technical Adviser on Multilateral and Donor-funded Projects, Dr. Sanni Abdullahi Ozomata said the state government would continue to identify with efforts aimed at repositioning the company for full operations.
He noted that the success of the company was tied to the economic future of not just Kogi State but the entire nation.
“Ajaokuta remains one of the most strategic projects in Nigeria’s journey to industrialization. As a government, we are ready to cooperate and support every sincere move towards its revival,” he said.
In his response, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje expressed delight at the renewed interest in the fortunes of the Ajaokuta steel plant.
He urged the new management to approach their assignment with honesty, diligence, and respect for the host community.
The royal father reminded the gathering that the people of Ebiraland have always played a supportive role in the history of the steel project and would continue to do so, provided there is transparency and fairness.
Speaking earlier, the Managing Director of Ajaokuta Steel Company, Prof. Naeem Abdulsalam thanked the royal father for the warm reception and acknowledged the importance of community engagement in the success of the company.
He assured the Ohinoyi and the state government that the new leadership is determined to change the narrative by laying foundations for visible progress and industrial growth.