Local Content: FG To Ban Importation Of Steel Products

The federal government on Thursday said that it is considering total ban on steel importation to encourage local steel manufacturers. This is as it reiterated its commitment to encourage local investors in mine and steel sector, especially with potential to provide more job opportunities for Nigerian youths.

This was disclosed by the Minister for Mines and Steel, Architect Olamilekan Adegbite, during a visit to a steel manufacturing industry in Ilorin, Kwara State, Kamwire Industry Limited.

The minister, said that government was determined to stop importation of substandard steel products. He said, “First, we are working with the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) to address the issue.

The ultimate aim is to ban steel importation totally.” He said government wants to encourage local firms so that they can provide employment opportunities. The minister, who said that local investors are better than foreign investors, added that they would engage the local people and at the end of the day would not take their profit out of the state.

The Vice Chairperson of Kamwire Holdings, Dr Bolanle Yusuf said, “Despite the recent closure of land borders, seaports are still porous and at the moment, Nigeria market is flooded with substandard roofing sheets, a sad scenario which calls for urgent national debate.”