FG Insists Ajaokuta Steel Company Remains in Good Condition

The Federal Government has dismissed recent media reports suggesting that the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL) is in poor condition, affirming instead that the plant remains in good shape.

In a statement issued yesterday by Salamatu Jibaniya, Head of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Steel Development, the government reaffirmed its commitment to reviving Nigeria’s steel industry, with ASCL at the centre of its plans.

“The attention of the Federal Ministry of Steel Development has been drawn to recent media reports regarding the future of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL). While we note the concerns expressed, it is important to state that the Federal Government remains firmly committed to the development of Nigeria’s steel sector, including the resuscitation of ASCL,” the statement read.

Jibaniya disclosed that a comprehensive technical and financial audit of the plant is ongoing to ensure all decisions are transparent, evidence-based, and in Nigeria’s best interest.

Citing the findings of a 2018 technical audit, she noted that “the overall assessment of the previous technical audit report maintained that the general status of the Steel Plant is in robust condition except for normal deterioration of replaceable parts and recommended automation of manual control systems for improved efficiency.”

The ministry added that it is confident the updated audit will form the basis for “decisive action that advances Nigeria’s industrial aspirations.”

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