The House of Representatives Committee on Steel Development has expressed strong opposition to the circulation of substandard iron rods in Nigeria, emphasizing the urgent need to address the increasing rate of building collapses.
In a statement on Thursday, Committee Chairman Rep. Zainab Gimba highlighted the critical link between substandard iron rods and the alarming frequency of building failures across the country. Addressing an interactive session with the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) in Abuja, Gimba stressed the necessity for collaborative efforts to tackle this pressing issue.
“Recent findings have revealed disturbing manipulations in iron rod specifications, where 10 mm rods are actually 7.56 mm, 12 mm rods are 9.25 mm, and 16 mm rods are 11.25 mm,” Gimba disclosed. She criticized regulatory agencies, particularly the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), for inadequately addressing the problem.
The committee, Gimba announced, will initiate an investigation into the matter and hold offenders accountable. “We must remember that we need to collaborate extensively with the Legislature to find urgent and sustainable solutions to the proliferation of substandard iron rods in Nigerian markets,” she stated, noting the severe consequences, including multiple deaths from building collapses.
Rep. Gimba underscored the committee’s commitment to engaging with critical stakeholders to fulfill President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Economic and Developmental Agenda. She commended President Tinubu’s dedication to the steel sector, evident in the establishment of the Ministry for Steel Development with two ministers tasked with its rapid development.
“Steel can significantly diversify the Nigerian economy and create employment opportunities, as seen in countries like Russia, the United States, and India,” Gimba added. She urged all stakeholders to support the revitalization of the steel industry and reduce dependence on the oil sector.
The lawmaker called for support on key issues such as the Metallurgical Bill and the revitalization of the Ajaokuta Steel Company, labeling the situation a national embarrassment. She demanded that SON and the Nigeria Consumer Protection Agency intensify their efforts to address the challenge of substandard products.
“We can no longer stand idly by while unscrupulous businessmen cause untimely deaths of innocent Nigerians,” Gimba declared. She emphasized the committee’s resolve to ensure the Ajaokuta Steel Company operates effectively, aligning with President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda, and suggested reasonable jail terms for offenders to deter the production and distribution of substandard iron rods.
In closing, Gimba reiterated the importance of protecting the steel industry and maintaining a strong commitment to statutory obligations. However, the committee refused to engage the representative of the NSE President, Ms. Margaret Oguntala, insisting she appear in person. Oguntala was represented by Engr. Chinasaokwu Okojie, Project Manager of Comppon Nigeria Company.