The federal government has opened discussions with top Chinese steel manufacturers in a renewed push to revive the long-dormant Ajaokuta Steel Company, one of Nigeria's most significant industrial assets.
Leading the effort is the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, who is currently on an investment mission in China. The Nigerian delegation includes officials from the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership and the Nigerian Embassy in Beijing. So far, the team has met with key players such as Sino Steel (part of the Baowu Group), Fangda Steel Group, and Jingye Steel Group.
According to a statement from the minister's media aide, Lizzy Okoji, talks with the Chinese firms focus on technical assessments, operational design, and financing plans that could support the full-scale revival of Ajaokuta.
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"Ajaokuta remains central to Nigeria's industrial strategy. With the right partners, we can unlock its full potential to boost local manufacturing and create thousands of jobs," Audu said.
Mr Joseph Tegbe, Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, described the mission as a bold step to align Nigeria's economic goals with China's industrial expertise. "This is about building partnerships that deliver long-term value to our economy," he said.
The revival of Ajaokuta is seen as crucial for reducing Nigeria's dependence on steel imports and strengthening the manufacturing value chain, especially in sectors such as construction, automobile assembly, and heavy machinery.
With an installed capacity of 1.9 million tonnes — expandable to 5 million tonnes — Ajaokuta Steel is expected to become a key driver of industrial growth if fully operational.
The project, first initiated in the late 1970s, has suffered decades of neglect due to poor planning, policy inconsistencies, and failed concession agreements. The current administration says it is committed to completing the revival before the end of its term.
