Breaking! Tinubu Appoints Prof. Abdul’Salam As MD Ajaokuta Steel Company

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Prof. Nasir Abdul’salam, a distinguished professor of geophysics and former Head of the Physics Department at the University of Abuja, as the new Managing Director of Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL).

The appointment was conveyed in a letter signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Sen. George Akume.

The director,  Information & Public Relations, office of the SGF,  Segun Imohiosen, in a statement noted that the appointment takes effect from 3rd April, 2025 in accordance with the provisions of the Certain Political and Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances, etc) Act 2008 as amended.

“President Tinubu tasks the appointee to leverage on his wealth of experience in the steel industry in his new assignment in revolutionising the company to generate important upstream and downstream industrial and economic activities that will position the nation as the industrial hub of Africa in line with the diversification drive of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statements reads.

Abdul’salam’s appointment marks a significant step towards revitalising the nation’s steel industry. As a respected academic and administrator, he played a pivotal role in advancing research, fostering innovation, and mentoring future scientists in the field of geophysics.

Beyond academia, Abdul’salam brings a wealth of experience in steel development, mining, and geosciences. Until his appointment, he served as the Technical Adviser to the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, where he was instrumental in shaping policies aimed at revamping Nigeria’s steel sector.

His career spans decades, including roles as Director of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) and Special Assistant (Academics) to the Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS). His contributions to research and policy development have strengthened bilateral relations between Nigeria and international partners, particularly in China and Ghana.

Ajaokuta Steel Company

The appointment comes at a critical time as the Nigerian government intensifies efforts to operationalise the Ajaokuta Steel Plant, a strategic national asset that has remained dormant for decades. With his deep expertise in geophysics and energy policy, Abdul’salam is expected to lead efforts to reposition the company as a key player in Nigeria’s industrial and economic transformation.

Reacting to his appointment,  Abdul’salam expressed his commitment to revitalising Ajaokuta Steel Company, stating, “This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s industrial sector. I am honoured by this responsibility and will work tirelessly to ensure Ajaokuta Steel fulfils its potential as the backbone of our nation’s steel production and economic growth.”

The revitalisation of Ajaokuta Steel Company is seen as a major catalyst for job creation, infrastructure development, and economic diversification. Abdul’salam assumes office, expectations remain high for a new era of progress in Nigeria’s steel sector.