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Experts lament as FG spends N20bn on idle Ajaokuta Steel in six years
The Federal Government allocated N20.4bn to Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited from 2016 to 2021 despite the company’s idleness.
The data were collated from the appropriation bill for each year available on the website of the Budget Office of the Federation.
In 2016, N295.1m was allocated with N135.2m released by October of that year.
However, a detailed breakdown of the expenditures for the year was not available.
In 2017, the total allocation was N4.3bn with recurrent expenditures at N3.9bn and capital expenditures at N354.1m.
For the recurrent expenditures, total personnel cost was put at N3.8bn while total overhead cost was put at N75.3m.
In 2018, the total allocation was N4.3bn with recurrent expenditures at N3.9bn and capital expenditures at N354.1m.
For the recurrent expenditures, total personnel cost was put at 3.8bn while total overhead cost was at N75.3m.
Further breakdown showed that salaries and wages cost N2.9bn, allowances and social contribution cost 895.3m, uniforms and other clothing cost N2.5m, refreshments and meals cost N1.8m, and purchase of bus cost N41.3m.
Funds were also budgeted for certain projects such as the maintenance of power facilities for N106.3m, construction /provision of water facilities for N196.5m, lighting and security of Ajaokuta steel plant at N10m and purchase of a 30-seater bus at N413m.
In 2019, the total allocation was N3.6bn with recurrent expenditures at N3.3bn and capital expenditures at N262m.
For the recurrent expenditures, total personnel cost was put at N3.25bn while total overhead cost was put at N75.3m.
Further breakdown showed that salaries and wages cost N2.5bn, allowances and social contribution cost N793.6m, uniforms and other clothing cost N2.5m, refreshments and meals cost N1.8m, and purchase of bus cost N41.3m.
Funds were also budgeted for certain projects such as the maintenance of power facilities for N87.7m, construction /provision of water facilities for N123m, lighting and security of Ajaokuta steel plant at N10m and purchase of a 30-seater bus at N41.3m.
In 2020, the total allocation was N3.7bn with recurrent expenditures at N3.6bn and capital expenditures at N147.2m.
For the recurrent expenditures, total personnel cost was put at N3.5bn while total overhead cost was put at N51.5m.
Further breakdown showed that salaries and wages cost N43.3m, allowances and social contribution cost N5.4m, uniforms and other clothing cost N273,684, and refreshments and meals cost N1.6m.
Funds were also budgeted for certain projects such as the maintenance of power facilities for N43m, construction/provision of water facilities for N94.2m, and lighting and security of Ajaokuta steel plant at N10m.
In 2021, the total allocation was N4.2bn with recurrent expenditures at N4bn and capital expenditures at N253.9m.
For the recurrent expenditures, total personnel cost was put at N3.9bn while total overhead cost was put at N72.3m.
Further breakdown showed that salaries and wages cost N3bn, allowances and social contribution cost N846.5m, uniforms and other clothing cost N2.5m and refreshments and meals cost N1.8m.
Fund was budgeted for only one project in 2021, which was the construction/provision of water facilities for N80m.
Russia’s Tyazpromoexport built the plant, which was incorporated in 1979.
The steel mill reached 98 per cent completion in 1994, with 40 of its 43 plants having been built before it got stuck, with the remaining two per cent for external infrastructure like waterways and viable ports.
Despite the regular budget, the steel company is yet to commence full operations in over 42 years, with the government making failed attempts at privatisation and concession.
In an attempt to revamp the company, an Indian company, Global Steel Holdings Limited, won the concession of the Ajaokuta steel mill for a 10-year period but the agreement was revoked when the Federal Government accused the firm of asset stripping, a development which led to a court case between the two parties.
The Federal Government announced in 2016 that the legal dispute had been resolved, after it reportedly ceded the National Iron Ore Mining Company, Itakpe, to Global Steel for the remaining concession period, in line with an agreement reached during mediation talks.
However, the resolution has since turned contentious.
In 2019, the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), ordered the completion of the company.
In 2020, the Senate also passed a resolution urging the Federal Government to, as a matter of urgency, complete the Ajaokuta Steel Complex.
The Federal Government inaugurated the Ajaokuta Presidential Project Implementation Team.
The Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite, said that the Ajaokuta Presidential Project Implementation Team would enact a pact reached between Buhari and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, which required the East European country to assist in completing the project and finding a Russian firm to manage it on Build-Operate-and-Transfer basis.
The minister said that Afreximbank would fund the project with $1bn, while the Russians would offer $460m, adding that a Russian firm, MetProm Group, would ensure the completion and operation of the steel company.
However, efforts at concession have failed.
There had also been calls on the Federal Government to privatise the company.
The Federal Government halted privatisation move, stating that the problem with the Ajaokuta Steel Company was very complex.
Adegbite had said that the Ajaokuta Steel Company Ltd. would function to capacity before the end of the regime of Buhari.
The minister added that the Federal Government had made efforts to ensure that the Russian company that built the steel industry would come to Nigeria to conduct a technical audit of the company.
Ajaokuta steel project, a waste of government scarce resources, say experts
An economist and a senior lecturer of economics at the Pan Atlantic University, Dr Olalekan Aworinde, who said that he was familiar with the establishment, described the company as a waste of government resources as it is currently inactive.
He, however, said that the company had the potential to significantly drive down unemployment, improve economic growth and boost the country’s foreign reserves.
He said, “I believe it is just a waste of government resources because If you go there you will see that there are a lot of workers, getting paid without working.
“Also, majority of the infrastructures that are put in place in that country are out of date and moribund; they can’t serve any purpose at this time.
“The only solution is to update the technology and equipment. The government should be ready to do a total overhaul of the establishment; bring in the right people and the latest technology.
“Iron oil is in abundance in Itakpe. So, if the government is able to revamp the establishment, it can reduce the rate of unemployment to a reasonable level.
“This will contribute immensely to the Gross Domestic Product growth of the country. It will also lead to the appreciation of the naira as we are going to demand less of the dollar.
“You see all those steel that we import into the country, they require foreign exchange to get them into the country.
“In summary, a functional Ajeokuta Steel Company will mean improved economic growth, reduction in unemployment. It will also help to stabilise the forex market and improve our foreign reserves.”
A former President of the Nigerian Metallurgical Society and a professor of metallurgical and materials engineering, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Benjamin Adewuyi, said that the problem with Ajaokuta was internal.
He said, “Ajaokuta Steel Company has a problem that is internal but it is not that it cannot be revived. Ajaokuta can be revived.
“The greatest problem is that those people who have benefitted in past in the corruption of Ajaokuta will not allow Ajaokuta to function.”
He added that the company could function in six to eight months if the government implemented a steel programme and allowed those in the Ajaokuta Presidential Project Implementation Team to function.
He added, “We have told the government several times that in less than six to eight months, Ajaokuta will start functioning if a steel programme is put in place.
“If the government allows the people who have been appointed to look at the situation in Ajaokuta to function, I am sure very soon we will see the difference between the moribund industry and the functioning industry.”
He further emphasised the need for a steel university, which he believed would provide manpower for the steel company.
“If Ajaokuta starts to work, it would require a steel university to bring out manpower for the steel plant to function well,” he said.
In May this year, the Senate passed the Nigerian Steel University Bill after the adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND.
Sen. Sam Egwu, who presented the report of the Committee on behalf of the Chairman, Sen. Ahmed Kaita, said that the Nigeria Steel University, when established, would provide the required manpower for metallurgical and technological advancement in the country.
PUNCH
Peter Obi Praises Air Peace London Experience, Commends Complimentary SIMPLAA Ride Service
Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has applauded Air Peace for delivering what he described as a seamless and impressive travel experience on its London route.
Speaking upon arriving in London aboard Air Peace, Obi commended the airline’s service delivery and encouraged Nigerians to support the indigenous carrier. “Since the inception of Air Peace’s London flights, each one of these experiences with Air Peace have been very smooth and very exciting, and I believe that we should all patronize Air Peace,” he said.
Obi also highlighted the airline’s complimentary drop-off ride service in partnership with SIMPLAA, noting that the added convenience further enhanced the travel experience.
“The whole experience of having even the complimentary drop-off ride makes it even more fascinating,” he added.
The complimentary ride service, introduced as part of Air Peace’s customer experience offering for its London route, is designed to provide seamless transportation for Business Class and First Class passengers upon arrival, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to comfort, convenience, and world-class service.
Since commencing its Lagos-London operations, Air Peace has continued to position itself as a strong player in international aviation, offering competitive fares and enhanced passenger-focused services while promoting national pride in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The Federal Government has announced 150 as the minimum cut-off mark for admission into universities and nursing schools across the country.
The decision was reached during the policy meeting on admissions organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) with stakeholders in the education sector.
According to the government, candidates seeking admission into universities and nursing institutions are expected to score at least 150 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to qualify for consideration.
The meeting also reviewed admission guidelines for polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions as part of efforts to maintain standards in the nation’s education system.
Stakeholders at the meeting urged institutions to ensure transparency and fairness in their admission processes while advising candidates to strictly adhere to admission requirements.
Rt. Hon. Barr. Sunday Cyriacus Umeha has continued to distinguish himself not only as a grassroots politician but as a sound parliamentarian who clearly understands the true essence of legislative representation and public service.
Since emerging as the Member representing Ezeagu/Udi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Umeha has consistently demonstrated capacity, vision, and commitment both on the floor of the National Assembly and within his constituency.
Unlike many politicians whose promises disappear after elections, Rt. Hon. Umeha has steadily transformed his campaign mantra, “Go and Verify,” into practical realities visible across communities in Ezeagu and Udi Federal Constituency.
From road construction to solar-powered streetlights, classroom projects, healthcare interventions, agricultural empowerment, scholarships, boreholes, and youth development programmes, his stewardship has remained rooted in service delivery and measurable impact.
Observers say one of the strongest qualities that separates Umeha from many lawmakers is his deep understanding of parliamentary responsibilities. Through strategic bills and motions, he has continued to show that representation goes beyond rhetoric and political appearances.
Among several notable legislative efforts, he sponsored bills seeking the establishment of a Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition in Ezeagu/Udi Federal Constituency, reforms in the education sector through the abolition of levies in public basic schools, mandatory insurance protection for NYSC members, and the establishment of a National Football Academy.
He also sponsored motions addressing critical national concerns, including the investigation into the gruesome killing of Nigerians by soldiers in Enugu State and the urgent completion of the Karshi/Apo Road project in Abuja to ease traffic congestion.
Political analysts note that these interventions reflect a lawmaker who understands that effective representation must combine constituency development with strong legislative advocacy.
Many constituents equally commend him for remaining faithful to the promises he made during his campaigns. Across the constituency, residents point to completed and ongoing projects as evidence that the lawmaker has not reneged on his commitments to the people.
Beyond governance and legislative duties, Rt. Hon. Umeha also played significant roles in efforts aimed at restoring sanity, stability, and internal cohesion within the Labour Party before his eventual defection to the APC.
Sources within the political space in Enugu State revealed that Umeha consistently pushed for peace, unity, and institutional order within the party during periods of internal crisis and leadership disagreements. His interventions were said to be driven by the desire to protect the interests of party members and preserve the integrity of the platform.
However, following prolonged internal challenges and unresolved structural issues within the Labour Party, the federal lawmaker eventually moved to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a decision many political observers described as strategic and inevitable.
Despite the political transition, supporters insist that his focus has remained unchanged — delivering quality representation, empowering constituents, and sustaining developmental projects across Ezeagu/Udi Federal Constituency.
For many residents, Rt. Hon. Barr. Sunday Cyriacus Umeha represents a rare blend of grassroots leadership, legislative competence, humility, and political responsibility.
And across the constituency, the verdict from many communities remains simple:
“He promised, and he delivered.”
Today, Friday 8 May 2026, Chief Sir Paul Chukwuma (Onwa Umueri) laid his beloved sister, Late Mrs Christiana Amaka Okeke to rest in a solemn but dignified ceremony.
A large number of family and friends gathered in Ogboji in Orumba South Local Government Area for her burial.
It was a solemn yet beautiful celebration of a life well lived, one marked by grace, resilience, and strong family values. The Funeral Mass was officiated by His Emience, Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpalaeke, The Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese.
In a heartfelt family tribute, Chief Sir Paul Chukwuma shared that her sister “it is indeed well with your soul and has gone to rest with the Lord,” expressing profound grief over the irreplaceable loss of a beloved sibling who played a significant role in their family. He prayed for God to grant her His mercy and reward her with Beatic Vision. He opined that they as a family will continue from where she stopped. Our Hope in God and Believe in the resurrection of the dead and communion of the saints will spur them on as they continue to place all their hopes in God who made Heaven and Earth.
The Funeral and Burial Ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries including Her Excellency Senator Dr Iyom Uche Ekwunife, APC State Chairman, Most Distinguished Senator Emma Anosike, Chief Uzoma Igbonwa (Okeife Alor), YPP Deputy Governorship Candidate 2025 Governorship Election, His Excellency, Chief Uzu Okagbue, Former Nigeria Ambassador to Burundi, His Excellency, Ambassador Elijah Onyeagba (Ozonkpu Ike Enuguwu-Ukwu N’Umunri, Dr Oby Orah, Executive Director FAAN, Prof Charles Esimone, Former Vice Chancellor Unizik, Chief Hon Raph Okeke, Barr CJ Chinwuba, Hon Chizo Obidigwe, Hon JC Okeke (Deputy Chairman ,APC Anambra State, chief Anthony Obiazie (Ichie Ide), Onwa Lento Aluminium.
Others are The Vice Chancellor of Benue State University and Members of the Governing Council, the Rector Anambra State Polytechnic,Dr Njideka Rita Chiekezie, Hon Obi Henry APC State secretary, Hon Ify Nwachukwu (Ada Onowu), Prof Jaja Nwanegbo, and several other respected leaders from the political, traditional, and religious communities.
Late Mrs Christiana Amaka Okeke died after Major Brain Tumour Surgery in Germany, aged 44 years. May the soul of Late Mrs Christiana Amaka Okeke rest in perfect peace, and may God grant the entire Chukwuma of Umueri and Okeke family of Ogboji, the strength and comfort to bear this irreparable loss.
*Videos and Photos Speak:*
*(C) Paschal Candle.*
By Okey Maduforo Awka
Gubernatorial candidate Mr John Nwosu and running mate of the African Democratic Congress ADC in Anambra state Chief Ndubuisi Nwobu have stated that despite the deoature of Mr Peter Obi, and Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso,the party is still intact and would run it’s full course in the 2027 general election.
The duo however lamented that the deoature of Obi is indeed painful but was quick to add that the party must forge ahead .
He said as leaders, Obi and Kwankwaso and other key chieftains of the ADC who suddenly left to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) would have waited to resolve the problems the ADC is facing when it mattered most rather than taking a swift to another fold.
Chief Nwobu bared his mind and feelings of other stakeholders of the ADC while briefing newsmen shortly after the ADC Anambra Leadership Consultative Meeting held on Friday in Awka the state capital.
He noted with nostalgia that the candidate of the Labour Party (LP) during the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi could have shown restraint and commitment in the ADC even in face of the party’s plethora of litigations pending before different courts than leaving it unceremoniously with others.
He vowed that despite the development, leaders and members of the State chapter of the ADC are resolute to take the full circle of the electoral battle ahead of next year’s general elections and would get to it to successfully.
Accorisng to him, the National leadership of the party was not given the opportunity to settle down even less than 24 hours before the supreme Court judgment on Thursday last week when news about the detection of those who left the party rented the air waves up till Friday and Saturday same week and finally on Sunday when the news was finally blown to the entire world.
Nwobu disclosed that the opposition ADC in the state at the moment parades about nine House of Representatives and six State House of Assembly aspirants who have bought nomination forms to contest the 2027 elections while more have indicated interest to join the epical race.
The ADC stalwart further maintained that all those who indicated interest to contest the various positions are greatly prepared to run the race with high morals.
“We feel pains that these people left the party (ADC); definitely it’s going to affect the gains of the party. There’s no point saying every other thing. That having been said I am telling you that those who remain in the party are resolute and prepared to run the course.
He said the ADC Anambra Leadership Consultative Meeting reaffirm loyalty and support to the National leadership under David Mark as national chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as the National Secretary.
Nwobu who was flanked by Hon. Christian Okeke, Ven. Chris Orajekwe and Arch. Afam Moma, Samuel Ikefuna, and Reginald Akunekwe and Ben Chuks Nwosu said “the state leaders reaffirm loyalty and support of the ADC Anambra state to the National leadership headed by Senator David Mark and His Excellency Rauf Aregbesola.”
“The meeting resolved to commend the founding chairman of the ADC Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu for the exemplary show of representing the ADC platform as an umbrella body for the coalition and his selfless role In navigating the coalition to it’s fruition.”
“And we wish to affirm that the ADC’s best is from Anambra state and Anambra state will not be found wanting in the efforts of the party to achieve success during the 2027 general elections,” he said.
“For our brothers who has moved on tp other platform, we wish them well. I look forward to a day we will all join hands together to salvage this country,” Nwobu stated.
He explained further that no new leadership has been Inaugurated in Anambra,adding that that it’s unnecessary for somebody to say he or she has resigned as the party is still contending on issues of offices, conduct of Congresses at the Federal High court.
Chief Nwobu stated that the Inauguration of officials elected at Congresses across the states would be made on the 11th of this month.
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