The Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Nikolay Udovichenko, said his country would support Nigeria in resuscitating the moribund Ajaokuta Steel Company to ensure rapid industrialisation of the country.
Besides, he said that Russia was to assist Nigeria to overcome its current challenges in other sectors of the economy, especially oil and gas.
Nikolay gave the assurance in his remarks at the 2016 Russia National Day celebration on Saturday in Abuja.
He said that a team of Russian engineers were ready to inject new technology into the steel mill to make it functional, adding that the country had remained a dependable ally to Nigeria.
He said that the relationship between both countries had always been cordial.
“Our relationship with Nigeria is based on mutual respect.
“On the security challenge, Nigeria can always count on Russia’s support.
“You can always be sure that we are with you in all your challenges,” the envoy said.
According to him, Russia is also ready to partner Nigeria in restoring new technology in the oil and gas.
“Russia also gives scholarships to many Nigerians annually to study in the country and will continue to support in the education sector.’’
The envoy, however, called on Nigeria’s businessmen to take advantage of the cordial relationship between the two countries to strengthen the trade relations between them.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the celebration was attended by members of the diplomatic and business communities and other top government functionaries. (NAN)
Ajaokuta steel was never built to function.It was built with obsolete Machines ,installed over 30 Years ago without test running them.All the key Technical Staff trained in Russia,Ukraine,Bulgaria ,Romania,etc has been retrenched and very old now.If the Plant is to work it is better to lease it to the Russians to complete and operate if not Nigeria will just waste another huge money for nothing.
All the Rolling Mills and support plants like Itakpe are moribund,it is a colossal waste.
Ajaokuta steel mill is a drain on Nigeria. Let the Russians resuscitate it, operate it and lets share in the profit. No more public funds should be spent on it. Alternatively let,s partner with any interested firm in the world to complete Ajaokuta, run, and operate it.