The need for the Federal Government to revive the Ajaokuta Steel Company and operationalize the plant has once again been stressed.
This is as Kogi State was adjudge one of the best panelists at day 3 of the 9th Nigeria Mining Week holding at Abuja Continental hotels.
Gov. Ahmed Usman Ododo, represent
ed by Engr. Bashiru Gegu, Kogi State Commissioner For Solid Minerals and Natural Resources made the call for Ajaokuta steel industry amongst other recommendations, He advocated Low-interest loans for iron and steel Projects.
Speaking on the topic; “Policy choice that will accelerate the Nigeria Iron and steel industry development”, the Governor called for the reactivation and expansion of the operations of the
National Iron Ore Mining Company (NIOMCO).
Gov. Ododo stressed the need to develop a Steel sector road map, with a comprehensive strategy for industry’s growth, advocated Investment incentives such as Tax holidays, duty-free imports, and subsidies to attract local and foreign investors.
Towards the Currency stabilization of the nation’s currency, the Governor’s representative harp on the Management of the exchange rates towards facilitating importation of equipment and raw materials.
He called for protective tariffs and quotas to shield local industry’s from unfair competition, specifically advocated for a National Iron and Steel Policy, Establish clear objectives, strategies, and regulations.
He called for serious Investment in transportation networks, ports, and energy supply, with the need to Establish institutions for technological innovation and skills development.
He further called for the enforcement of quality standards for iron and steel products, said raw materials sourcing should encourage local mining of iron ore, coal, and limestone.
He called for the simplification of licensing procedures, called for the streamlining of permits and approvals.
On Environmental regulations, he stressed the establishment and enforcement of eco-friendly standards
with safety regulations on occupational health and safety standards, added that anti-dumping laws must be p in place to protect local industry from unfair trade practices.
On Human Capital Development, the need for training programs that will develop vocational skills for technicians, engineers, and operators as well as scholarships to support education and research in metallurgy and materials science.
He further add on the need for capacity building that will collaborate with international institutions for knowledge transfer.
He called for a Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) that to collaborate on infrastructure development and production and joint ventures that will encourage partnerships between local and international companies.
He concluded by calling for the establishment of a regulatory agency to oversee industry development and enforcement.
Among the panelist at the session with Gov. Ododo was the Minister of steel development who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry as well as the Chairman of KAM Steel.