By Fatima Saka
The Federal Ministry of Steel Development has engaged stakeholders on the Nigerian Metallurgical Industry Bill 2023. The bill aims to revitalize the nation’s metallurgical sector and foster sustainable development.
The meeting brought together key players from academia, government institutions, private enterprises, and civil society, all dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s metallurgical capabilities.
In his keynote address, the Honorable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaiubu Abubakar Audu, emphasized the critical role of the metallurgical industry in national development.
“The Nigerian Metallurgical Industry Bill is a landmark legislation designed to establish a strong legal and regulatory framework for the sector. For too long, the absence of a comprehensive legal structure has hindered growth, efficiency, and global competitiveness. This bill aims to address these long-standing challenges, ensuring the industry becomes a key driver of economic diversification,” he stated.
Prince Audu further highlighted that once passed, the bill would strengthen the ministry’s capacity to regulate the steel and metals industry by establishing operational standards, enforcing quality control, and promoting industrial best practices. He noted that the legislation would enhance investor confidence, attract both local and foreign investments, and create a transparent business environment.
The minister also pointed out that the bill presents a strategic opportunity to position Nigeria as a major player in the global metallurgical value chain. However, he stressed the need to tackle enforcement challenges, infrastructural gaps, and industry security concerns.
“The collective input of all stakeholders is crucial in refining this bill to ensure effective implementation,” he added, urging continued dialogue and collaboration.
Stakeholders Call for a Robust Legislative Framework
The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwu, reiterated the importance of the engagement, noting that the bill, once enacted, would serve as the primary legislation governing Nigeria’s steel and metallurgical sector. He emphasized the need for the bill to reflect current industry realities, particularly the new roles and mandates of the Ministry of Steel Development.
He urged stakeholders to actively participate in the discussions, ensuring that the final law is comprehensive, forward-thinking, and aligned with global best practices.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Steel, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, emphasized the need for the bill to pass through the legislative process in the Senate, including multiple readings and deliberations, before its eventual enactment. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that contributions to the bill come from key industry stakeholders.
Chairman of the House Committee on Steel, Hon. Zainab Gimba, highlighted how the recent establishment of the Ministry of Steel Development, following its separation from the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, had transformed the sector’s regulatory framework.
She noted that this shift necessitated a thorough review of the Nigerian Metallurgical Industry Bill 2023 to align with the Ministry’s updated structure and responsibilities.
Hon. Gimba explained that the bill, which has passed its first reading, is more than just a legal document—it is a strategic blueprint for the sector’s future.
She emphasized that the stakeholders’ meeting provided a valuable platform to refine the bill, ensuring it addresses critical regulatory gaps and strengthens Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness.
She outlined key focus areas of the bill, including:
General Administration
Control Measures at Metallurgical Plants
Issuance and Revocation of Operating Licenses
Employee Duties and the Promotion of Indigenous Industries
Offenses and Penalties
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Hon. Gimba called on stakeholders to contribute their expertise in shaping a progressive regulatory framework that would enhance technological capabilities, promote sustainable steel production, and drive economic growth.
Urgency for a Comprehensive Steel Policy
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the National Steel Council, Prof. Abdulkarim Abubakar Kana, emphasized the urgent need for a strong legislative framework to address challenges in the steel sector. He stressed that Nigeria must take decisive action to develop a bill that comprehensively covers all aspects of steel production and regulation.
The engagement reaffirmed the collective commitment of stakeholders to strengthening Nigeria’s metallurgical industry through a well-defined legal and regulatory framework. The Ministry assured participants that the final draft of the Nigerian Metallurgical Industry Bill 2023 would reflect the aspirations and insights of all stakeholders, positioning the industry for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
