27 May 2014, Abuja – Vice President Namadi Sambo on Tuesday said efforts were ongoing by the Federal Government to revamp the Ajaokuta Steel Complex to boost the economy of Kogi State and that of the country.
He said President Goodluck Jonathan had already directed him in his capacity as the chairman of the National Council on Privatisation to ensure that this is achieved in due time.
Sambo spoke at the foundation laying ceremony of Kogi House in Abuja.
He said apart from the steel industry, the government was also taking issues of power and rail in the state seriously.
He said, “In addition to Mr. President’s commissioning of the 450MW Geregu Power Plant, we shall soon commission the standard gauge railway to Warri Port, the Banda Inland Water Port is at 60 percent completion.
“We are supporting the private sector in development of 1,000MW coal power plant as well as development of all the solid minerals and hydro-carbon.
“We shall continue to partner with you in the development of Kogi State, very soon Ajaokuta Steel Industry will be brought back to life.”
Sambo noted that Abuja is a symbol of Nigeria’s unity and strength and therefore, it behooves all state governments to strengthen this unity and cooperation by establishing a string of liaison offices in the capital city.
He also urged state governments to emulate the strategy of Kogi State in achieving infrastructural development for the benefit of citizens.
Earlier, the Kogi State Governor, Capt. Idris Wada, said the building was in line with the blueprint of his administration to transform the state.
– The Punch
