President Bola Tinubu has revealed that the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, which is now nearing completion after being previously abandoned, will have the capacity to employ 500,000 Nigerians once it is designated as a free trade zone.
The President also pledged to fully harness the potential of the Complex once it is finished, as it will enhance Nigeria’s foreign direct investment and create a conducive business environment for all sectors to thrive.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Tinubu, made these remarks during the launch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship campaign in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State.
The governorship election in the state is scheduled for November 11.
Addressing a large crowd in Lokoja, VP Shettima emphasized that Tinubu is committed to completing the construction of key infrastructure projects such as the River Niger, Kabba-Lokoja, and Abuja-Lokoja roads.
He described President Tinubu as a visionary leader determined to reposition Nigeria in terms of restructuring and stimulating the economy.
VP Shettima stressed the importance of a harmonious relationship between Kogi State and the federal government, citing the state’s role as a confluence state.
He outlined plans by the Tinubu administration to realize the Itakpe crop processing project and promised jobs and affordable education under the present government.
Reiterating that the welfare of the citizens would not be compromised, VP Shettima urged Kogi citizens to turn out in large numbers on November 11 to vote for the APC candidate, Ahmed Usman Ododo, to build on the achievements of the APC government in the state.
He also announced President Tinubu’s approval for the rehabilitation of the Obajana-Okene road in Kogi State.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for agreeing to launch the governorship campaign in his state.
He highlighted the achievements of his administration in areas such as security, education, and healthcare, and called for the people of Kogi to vote for the APC candidate to move the state forward.
Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the APC National Chairman, emphasized that because Governor Yahaya Bello has provided good governance in Kogi, the state cannot afford to change the party at the center.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Chairman of the APC Campaign Council for Kogi State, encouraged the people of Kogi to prepare their voter cards and turn out in large numbers to support the APC candidate in the November 11 governorship election.
Kogi State APC governorship candidate, Ahmed Ododo, pledged to include the people of the state in his plans if elected, emphasizing his commitment to the development agenda of Kogi State.
He outlined priorities in security, education, agriculture, health, and women’s empowerment.