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Industsrialization: ‘Revive Ajaokuta Steel Now’, Mohammed Bougei Attah Tells FG

Published

3 years ago

September 4, 2021

Industsrialization: ‘Revive Ajaokuta Steel Now’, Mohammed Bougei Attah Tells FG

SaharaWeeklyNg Reports That A passionate believer in the possibility of a greater Nigeria, Mohammed Bougei Attah, fondly called MBA is a social worker, procurement professional and anti-corruption crusader.

He is the Africa Regional Coordinator for the World Association of NGOs. In this interview with Wale Abydeen, MBA, who pilots NGO Network; a national civil society engagement advocates for new dawn in the industrialization sector. He harps on revitalization of Ajaokuta steel as a major panacea to unemployment and youth restfulness, noting that any politician or political party who fails to enunciate his or her vision on power, steel and revitalization of Ajaokuta Steel project may not catch his attention and that of his groups.

As an activist what’s your view about industrialization policy of the government?

My views as expressed by the actions of the present administration are based on several initiatives and drive in that direction. Of course we have seen a lot of infrastructural development across Nigeria today. We are witness to the annual science and technology fair and most recently, the Ministry of Science and Technology was renamed to include innovation department. These are elements of industrialization and growth. Despite all these however, we are still far behind to meeting the goal. Our industries are broken, there’s no functional steel industry or a sustainable ore mining sites that can boost the country’s industrial growth.

What’s the problem with steel company in Nigeria?

The problems are many, and about 90% of the problems are internal. Political Will is a huge challenge to Nigeria and Africa at large. Imagine Ajaokuta Steel Company that is 95% completed, with capacity to employ 60 thousand workforce, direct and indirect unattended to. The government of Muhammadu Buhari promised the revival of Ajaokuta as part of his campaign promises. While I will say the government has made efforts, what is on the ground is not enough. What happened to the Ajaokuta Presidential Project Implementation Team, APPIT? Where are the Russian experts expected to visit Nigeria on an evaluation exercise to kick start the process of recovery? Where is the AFREMIX Bank that is expected to provide the funding for this takeoff doing? So many questions unanswered.

How can FG revive Ajaokuta steel company?

As I said earlier, the process is on with many lofty ideas. The inauguration of a Presidential Team to oversee the possible revival of the steel company is a step towards accelerating steel production in Nigeria. What is missing and on which we are advising the government is stop wastage on other non-performing projects like new refineries, concentrate and complete the existing ones like Ajaokuta Steel Company which is the Gateway to Nigeria industrialization. There are uncountable opportunities associated with ASCL if fully functional. Some of the areas include steel productions that can turnaround our future. We can produce power to about six states in Nigeria. Oxygen that is so much needed for Corona Virus patients can be produced in Ajaokuta. Rail rods, housing needs etc are parts of the benefits of a functional steel industry. We are mindful of these benefits and that is why we are embarking on a maiden Steel Conference in Nigeria.

What’s your conference all about?

This upcoming Conference which is tagged National Conference on Ajaokuta Steel Project and President Muhammadu Buhari Industrialization Agenda is the first of its kind in the Ajaokuta phenomenon. It is specifically design to interrogate the issues and bottlenecks around the revival of the steel company. It is means to reawaken the consciousness of Nigerians to the realization that our hope for the future, in the midst of dwindling resources is Ajaokuta Steel Company. So we have engaged stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond to connect and dialogue on the way forward. As a matter of fact, there’s no going back on the revival of Ajaokuta as Hon. Kazsure posited on the floor of the National Assembly few years ago. The two Chambers of the National Assembly have passed a resolution that the steel plant should be revived to full utilization. We are not only hopeful that the President Buhari led administration will fulfill his promise on the project, we are also determined to set up appropriate channels through which Nigeria and Nigerians will enjoy the fruit of its natural endowment.

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Prophet Ikuru bombarded with calls from opposition parties to join them against 2027

Published

51 minutes ago

December 23, 2024

Sahara Weekly

By Collins Nkwocha

Prophet Godwin Ikuru has cemented his position as one of the leading prophets on the African continent, as an integral part of APC , the prophetic hall of fame never hid his love for the president, Ahmed Bola Tinubu whom he prognosticated into power and fought several battles for his sake

It’s alarming to discover that several political parties are wooing the handsome prophet against 2027 as they believe that his true potential is being underutilised in APC who left him without a portfolio,they kept bombarding him with numerous calls for him to leave the ruling party and join them against 2027

Despite the numerous calls and emissaries sent by the opposition parties,the prophetic hall of fame has kept faith with APC because of the unending love he has for Mr.president,Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he’s willing to remain with him despite all the happenings and odds.

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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

In a heartfelt message, The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has extended warm festive greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, and across Nigeria as the nation embarks on the joyous celebration of Christmas.

Recognizing the significance of this time of year, Olopade emphasized the essence of unity, love, and gratitude that the Christmas season embodies. He urged citizens to reflect on the virtues of compassion and generosity, which are particularly vital in fostering peace and harmony in communities.

“Christmas is a time for joy, reflection, and togetherness. It reminds us of the values of love and kindness, which are fundamental to our social fabric,” said Olopade. “As we celebrate this festive season, let us remember those in need and extend a hand of support to one another.”

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, acknowledged the challenges that many have faced over the past year, including economic hardships and social unrest, yet he expressed optimism for the future. “In the spirit of Christmas, let us embrace hope and look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Our unity and resilience can overcome any challenges we face.”

Olopade also highlighted the importance of sports in promoting peace and national unity, noting that the NSC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all Nigerians can participate in sports and recreational activities. He encouraged communities to engage in sports events during the festive period as a means to strengthen bonds and celebrate togetherness.

As part of his Christmas message, Olopade called on everyone to prioritize the welfare of others, particularly the less fortunate. He urged individuals and organizations to consider charitable acts that can uplift those in need during this season of giving.

In closing, Bar. Bukola Olopade wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. He expressed hope that the spirit of the season would inspire a renewed commitment to community service and cooperation among citizens.

As the festivities continue, the Chairman’s message resonates with the values of compassion, unity, and hope, encouraging all to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

Business

Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal

…As Dangote Refinery partners MRS to sell PMS at N935 per litre nationwide at its retail outlets

Sahara Weekly Unveils That The Foremost entrepreneur and President of the Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the positive impact of the naira for crude swap deal on the Nigerian economy, which has led to reduction in prices of petroleum products in the country.

To provide succour to Nigerians, Dangote recently reduced the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from N970 to N899.50 at its Refinery loading gantry and provided generous credit terms to marketers.

“To ensure that this price reduction gets to the end consumer, we have signed a partnership with MRS to sell petrol from its retail outlets nationwide at N935 per litre” he added. This price has already commenced in Lagos, and it will be offered nationwide from Monday.

In his statement, he called on other oil marketers such as the NNPC Retail and all other marketers, “to work with us to ensure that Nigerians enjoy high-quality petrol at discounted prices.”

According to him, “The Dangote Refinery is for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians. We will therefore continue to work with various value chain players to deliver high quality petrol at cheaper prices. Our aim is for all Nigerians to have ready access to high quality petroleum products that are good for their vehicles, good for their health, and good for their pockets.

Recall that in September, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under the leadership of Mr. President approved the sale of crude to local refineries in Naira and corresponding purchase of petroleum products in Naira. The move, which commenced on October 1, led to reduced pressure on the dollar and ensured the stability of the local currency.

Dangote thanked Nigerians for their unwavering support and the government for creating an enabling environment for the domestic refining industry.