Reps panel: Tinubu has shown political will to revive Ajaokuta steel

The house of representatives ad hoc committee on illegal mining says President Bola Tinubu’s administration has shown the political will to revive the Ajaokuta Steel Company in Kogi state.

Speaking on Wednesday during the committee’s inauguration, Sanni Abdulraheem, chairman of the panel, said the Ajaokuta Steel Company is a “glaring testament to the nation’s failure” to fully harness the potential of its mineral resources.

“This vital industrial asset has been underutilised for years, leaving us to watch while other nations capitalise on similar resources. For many years, the Ajaokuta Steel Company has stood as a symbol of unrealised potential,” he said.

“However, I am proud to say it is now on track to fulfil its true promise. The current administration has shown unprecedented political will to rejuvenate this critical national asset.”

The lawmaker said Tinubu has appointed an “indigenous professional” to lead the company’s revival, adding that this presents hope for Nigeria’s steel industry.

“With Ajaokuta poised for success, we are looking at not just an economic game-changer but a cornerstone for our industrialisation, job creation, and long-term economic growth,” he said.

‘WE’LL END ILLEGAL MINING’

The legislator described illegal mining as a scourge with devastating effects on our nation’s revenue and environment.

He said the country loses approximately $9 billion annually due to illegal mining.

“This theft of our resources that should be enriching our nation has gone on for far too long, and it is time to end it. Our mission is clear. It is to block these revenue leakages, enforce transparency, and ensure that every naira from our natural resources are properly accounted for,” he said.

“We are here today to ensure that every naira generated from our rich natural resources contributes to the nation’s economic prosperity.

“Equally important is the issue of criminality and environmental degradation linked to illegal mining.

“These activities not only fuel insecurity, but they also lead to the pollution of our waterways, the degradation of our forests, and the displacement of vulnerable communities.

“This is a matter of national urgency to tackle these issues head-on and it is why we are here today. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts.

“This committee stands firmly on the constitutional mandate entrusted to us by the people we serve as their representatives.

“We are committed to fulfilling our oversight responsibility as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to expose corruption in any form, curb malpractices, and ensure that our resources are used for the benefit of all Nigerians.”

Abdulraheem said through diligent oversight, the committee will rid the nation of the “cancer of illegal mining,” safeguard the environment, and protect the well-being of Nigerians.

Attah Onoja, commander of the mining marshals at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), said the force and the interior and solid minerals ministries are collaborating to tackle illegal mining.

He said since the partnership, over 500 illegal miners have been arrested, and 270 are currently facing trial.

“Just three weeks ago, we secured convictions, and all these efforts are geared towards ensuring that with the market, illegal mining activity in Nigeria,” he said.

Onoja assured the committee of support to eradicate illegal activities in the making industry.