Stakeholders to examine progress, policy direction, and prospects for Nigeria’s foremost steel project
The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) for the Revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Company has announced a National Conference on Ajaokuta, scheduled to hold virtually on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM.
The conference, themed:
“The Ajaokuta Phenomenon in the Tinubu Era: A Turning Point or Another Missed Opportunity?”, will bring together leading experts, policymakers, technocrats, and civil society actors from Nigeria and the international community to critically assess the trajectory of the steel sector.
According to the organizers, the conference aims to provide a holistic review of efforts toward reviving Ajaokuta Steel Company, with particular focus on developments under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Distinguished Faculty and Panelists
The conference will feature Engr. Prof. Banji Oyeyinka, Visiting Fellow at The Open University, United Kingdom, and former staff of the African Development Bank, as the Lead Speaker.
He will be joined by an eminent panel of experts, including:
Otunba Dele Ajayi-Smith, Africa Citizens Development Foundation (ACDF), Lagos
Barr. Clifford Thomas, Akwa Ibom Human Rights Community, Uyo
Prof. Adediran Abubakre, Federal University, Minna
Mr. Collins Nweke, International Economist and former President of NIDO-Europe)
Coalition’s Position
In a statement issued following the commencement of online registration, the National Coordinator of the Coalition, Mr. Mohammed Bougei Attah, emphasized that the conference is designed to objectively evaluate the progress, challenges, and policy direction of Ajaokuta’s revival efforts.
He noted that previous administrations, including those of former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, had also been reviewed by the Coalition regarding their commitments to the steel sector.
“This conference will provide a credible platform to assess whether the current administration is charting a new course for Ajaokuta or continuing a cycle of missed opportunities,” he stated.
Context and Policy Relevance
The Coalition highlighted that the conference comes at a critical time, particularly in light of recent engagements by President Tinubu in the United Kingdom on steel importation and industrial partnerships. These developments, the Coalition noted, raise important questions about Nigeria’s strategic direction in achieving self-sufficiency in steel production.
Call to Participation
Stakeholders across government, industry, academia, and civil society are encouraged to participate in this timely and strategic dialogue aimed at shaping the future of Nigeria’s industrialization.
Participation is virtual, and interested attendees are advised to register through the designated online platforms.