Uba Maigari Ahmadu, the Minister of State for Steel Development, underscored the pivotal role of the steel sector in fostering economic development during his address at the 8th Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) in Lagos State.
Ahmadu highlighted the current administration’s dedicated efforts to revitalize the steel sector as a strategic move towards advancing Nigeria’s industrialization and economic diversification agenda. He emphasized the multifaceted importance of steel development in driving sustainable economic growth and national development, aligning with the overarching goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Moreover, Ahmadu stressed the imperative of collaboration between the Ministry of Steel Development and the oil and gas industry, citing the indispensable role of steel fabrication in supporting oil and gas exploration, production, transportation, and storage infrastructure.
Encouraging partnership opportunities within the Nigerian steel sector, Ahmadu emphasized collaboration, joint ventures, and knowledge sharing to create a mutually beneficial ecosystem for growth and prosperity. He highlighted the significance of supporting local content development, job creation, and sustainable economic growth through active collaboration between the two industries.
Ahmadu also commended the National Metallurgical Training Institute (NMTI) in Onitsha for providing industry-specific training programs to equip Nigerians with essential skills for the oil and gas sector. He acknowledged the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) for its commitment to advancing the African petroleum industry and recognizing the pivotal role of the steel sector in the nation’s economy.
At a dinner celebrating 75 years of Dorman Long Engineering, a leading oilfield equipment and structural steel company, Ahmadu praised the company’s transformative collaboration across industries, including oil and gas, telecommunications, and manufacturing. He expressed confidence in Dorman Long’s innovative spirit and commitment to collaboration in shaping a new era for steel in Nigeria.
Dr. Timi Austen-Peters, Chairman of Dorman Long Engineering, emphasized the foundational importance of steel development for economic growth and reiterated the company’s willingness to partner with the Ministry of Steel Development for the infrastructural development of the country.
