Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Federal Government has called for stronger collaboration between Nigeria’s steel and electricity sectors, describing both industries as critical pillars for industrialisation, economic growth and national development.
Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, made the call during a courtesy visit to the Corporate Headquarters of the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency, NEMSA, in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, Audu stressed that the steel and power sectors are closely linked and must work in synergy to unlock Nigeria’s industrial potential and accelerate economic transformation.
According to the minister, neither sector can attain its full capacity without the support of the other, noting that reliable electricity supply is essential for steel production, while the power industry depends heavily on steel products for infrastructure development.
“The steel and power sectors have historically shared a close and mutually reinforcing relationship,” Audu said.
He added that both sectors remain strategic enablers of industrialisation, economic growth and national development, underscoring the need for sustained cooperation among government agencies and industry stakeholders.
The minister also commended NEMSA for its role in promoting electrical safety, enforcing technical standards and certifying electricity meters across the country.
Audu noted that the agency’s regulatory oversight has become increasingly important as Nigeria seeks to expand power infrastructure, improve electricity access and attract investments into the energy sector.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEMSA, Engr. Olusegun M. Adesayo, described the minister’s visit as a strong signal of the Federal Government’s commitment to inter-agency cooperation and economic development.
Adesayo, who is also the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, said the engagement reflects a shared vision to advance industrial growth, strengthen infrastructure development and enhance national prosperity through strategic partnerships.
“The Minister’s visit is a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration and national development,” Adesayo said.
He added that closer cooperation between the steel and electricity sectors would support the delivery of critical infrastructure projects, improve industrial productivity and create new opportunities for investment and job creation.
Industry stakeholders have consistently identified steel and electricity as two of the most important sectors required to drive Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda, with both industries playing a central role in manufacturing, construction, energy development and broader economic expansion.
The meeting highlighted the growing recognition within government circles that stronger alignment between key productive sectors will be necessary to achieve sustainable economic growth and position Nigeria as a competitive industrial hub in Africa.
