The Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is committed to reviving Nigeria’s steel sector as a catalyst for industrial growth, job creation, and economic development in 2026, the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has stated.

In a New Year message released in Abuja, Audu reaffirmed the ministry’s focus on turning policy reforms into measurable production outcomes, strengthening local content, creating sustainable jobs, and positioning the steel industry as a key driver for national development.

Reflecting on 2025, he highlighted milestones including the inaugural National Steel Summit, which brought together stakeholders to chart a new course for the sector. He also reiterated plans to revitalize the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, attract investments, improve energy supply, and establish mini-LNG plants to boost production.

On human capital, the ministry has employed over 200 steel-sector experts and trained more than 700 youths nationwide, aiming to bridge skills gaps and support industrial growth. Audu noted increasing confidence from local and international investors, with new projects, plant expansions, and rehabilitation of key metallurgical assets signaling optimism for the sector’s future.