By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, on Saturday hosted stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State to an interactive session at his country home Ogbonicha, Ofu Local Government Area, Kogi Stat.
In a tease signed by Lizzy Okoji the
Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, said session was aimed at highlighting the remarkable achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and mobilising grassroots support for his re-election bid in 2027.
Addressing his constituents, Prince Audu underscored the bold reforms and developmental strides of the President Tinubu led administration over the past two years, emphasising his determination to resolve Nigeria’s pressing challenges, grow the economy, improve the welfare of citizens, and deliver dividends of democracy across the country.
He noted that the impact of the “Renewed Hope” agenda is already being felt at the grassroots, citing examples such as the recent drop in the prices of some staple foods. The Minister urged constituents to remain optimistic and expect even greater progress in the coming years, particularly with the re-election of President Tinubu.
“In just two years, Mr. President has shown strong political will and commitment to transform Nigeria. State FAAC allocations have increased significantly, and Kogi State has directly benefitted from this boost”. Prince Audu stated.
The Minister who reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to revive the Ajaokuta Steel Plant said the current administration under his leadership signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) of the plant.
The Minister Pointed out that the ministry is also extending the search for private investors to China which marks a significant step forward towards its resuscitation.
“And I am confident that when we get to 2027, we will deliver the votes en masse to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Tinubu is Kogi, and Kogi is Tinubu. That is why Mr President appointed me as a Minister of the Federal Republic from Kogi State to oversee the rehabilitation of Ajaokuta.”
“We are doing a tremendous job. The journey has started, and we will be able to turn Ajaokuta and deliver results very quickly,” Prince Audu said.
In his remarks, Mr. Joshua Onoja, State Secretary of the APC, commended the Minister for convening the session and reaffirmed the party’s total support for the re-election of President Tinubu. He assured that the Kogi APC remains united and committed to President Tinubu’s success.
Also speaking, Hajiya Hauwa Aduku, Kogi State Women Leader of the APC, urged the constituents on undivided loyalty to President Tinubu“. There should be no vote for any other party from Kogi East,” she declared.
The House of Assembly Member, Representing Ofu/Idah Federal Consituency Hon. Saidu Ahmadu Baryoil also lauded the minister’s leadership and reiterated the loyalty of Kogi East to the APC.
“The APC in Kogi State was birthed by the late Prince Abubakar Audu. Today, you are walking in his footsteps. Kogi East stands firmly with you and with President Tinubu.” he assured.
During the event, Prince Audu was presented with a Humanitarian Award by Arise Igala Magazine in recognition of his selfless service and contributions to the development of the Igala nation.
The well-attended stakeholders meeting brought together APC chieftains, Executive Chairmen, party stalwarts, the forum of Local Government Chairmen and Secretaries, Councilors from across Kogi East, current and former members of the Kogi State House of Assembly, the Audu/Faleke Support Group, and representatives from Kogi Central and West, as well as a massive crowd of enthusiastic party supporters.
