Ajaokuta Steel Plant to Begin Revitalisation in Early 2025, Says Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content, has confirmed that the revitalisation of the Ajaokuta Steel Company will begin in the first quarter of 2025.

This follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in September by Shuaibu Audu, the Minister of Steel Development, with the original builders of the plant, Messrs Tyazhpromexport (TPE), for its rehabilitation and operation.

Speaking at the ongoing Practical Nigerian Content Forum in Bayelsa State, Akpoti-Uduaghan highlighted the federal government’s commitment to revamping the steel plant. She expressed confidence that work would begin next year with the support of the original builders.

“I would like to give credit to the president, who has committed extensive political will in ensuring that the Ajaokuta Steel Company has been connected with the original builders,” she said.

“A certain number of MoUs and agreements have been undertaken, and in the first quarter of next year, we are hoping that Tyazhpromexport will be on the ground to kick-start the revitalisation of the steel plant.

“That means we are setting ourselves, our country, strategically to begin to manufacture the core components and machines that are utilised in the oil and gas sector.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan also underscored the importance of the project in reducing reliance on imported steel for local oil and gas operations, stressing the potential for job creation and savings.

“And what actually makes up a rig? Steel. So, just imagine, count how many rigs you have in Nigerian waters. Imagine if we had those rigs manufactured in-country- that means we would have saved so much money and we would have created so many jobs.”

The senator acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasised the necessity of a strategic vision to push forward the revitalisation of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.

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