Rethinking the Future: The Urgent Need to Revitalise Nigeria’s Ajaokuta Steel Complex
In a recent speech at the University of Ilorin in Kwara State, Professor Jamiu Odusote, a renowned expert in Metal Engineering, has called on the Nigerian government to take decisive action in revitalising the Ajaokuta Steel Complex and other metal companies in the country. The purpose of this move is to drive the development of the metal sector of the economy and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported metal products for its progress.
During his inaugural speech titled “Engineering Materials Development as catalyst for innovation,” Professor Odusote expressed deep concern over the state of Nigeria’s infrastructural deficits and inadequate industrialisation. He emphasised the critical role that steel and other metal products play as engineering materials for structural applications. The lack of progress in the steel industry has left Nigeria heavily dependent on imported metal products, hindering its economic growth and development.
Highlighting the pivotal role of materials and metallurgical engineering in technological advancement and economic development, Professor Odusote urged the government to enhance its funding of these disciplines by providing state-of-the-art facilities for training. He stressed the necessity for training institutions to offer comprehensive education in Materials Engineering at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, recognising the profound impact this has on the country’s overall technological advancement and economic prosperity.
In addition to increased funding, Professor Odusote called for special governmental funding for the training of Materials/Mining/Metallurgical engineers at all levels. He argued that if Nigeria truly aims to diversify its economy and compete on a global scale, substantial investment in the education and training of engineers is non-negotiable. Furthermore, he proposed the enactment of laws that would mandate manufacturing industries to finance research in the field of engineering materials development, thereby promoting innovation and technological progress within the sector.
Moreover, Professor Odusote urged the government to undertake a comprehensive review of engineering curricula to ensure they are aligned with societal and industrial needs. This, he argues, will better prepare graduates to make meaningful contributions to national development and societal growth, in turn, driving progress across Nigeria.
Finally, the call for the revitalisation of the Ajaokuta Steel Complex and other metal companies in Nigeria is a significant one. It is clear that the government must take proactive steps to breathe new life into the country’s steel industry and propel the metal sector towards growth and development. By investing in education, research, and infrastructure, Nigeria has the opportunity to enhance its economic potential and position itself as a competitive force in the global market. It is imperative that the government heeds this call and acts swiftly to revitalise the Ajaokuta Steel Complex for the brighter future of Nigeria.
