5th August, 2022
By Femi Ogunshola
The House of Representatives Committee on Steel has called for concerted efforts to ensure that the Ajaokuta Steel Mill located in Kogi State becomes fully operational.
Rep. Abdullahi Halims, the chairman of the committee, made this appeal on Friday during an oversight visit with other members of the committee to the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development in Abuja.
According to Halims, the facility would significantly contribute to the growth of the country when operational.
He noted that the steel mill would create job opportunities and help address the insecurity arising from the unemployment of young people.
“To be succinct and precise, the purpose of this oversight/inspection is to see how the operations of the Ministry are faring.
“We also seek to gather information, identify challenges, build synergy, and look for ways to resolve issues that need government input through legislative actions,” the lawmaker said.
Halims noted that the country was facing enormous challenges in human, social and economic development. Also, the increasing level of violence, insecurity, deepening poverty and inequalities were demoralising, adding that they were capable of inspiring action amongst political leaders.
“Nigeria 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.
“The committee will help to see how government agencies through budgetary releases can foster and build confidence in the teeming youth through legislative engagement.”
“I urge the ministry to work closely with our committee, for in that way, we can together explore more opportunities for positive growth.”
NAN