By correspondent in Lokoja.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has commended the appointment of Professor Abdulsalam Nasir Naeem as the new Managing Director of Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited, describing the development as well-deserved and timely.
This is contained in a statement signed by by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Mr. Unubi Emmanuel,and a copy available to The Reporters in Lokoja on Sunday.
Governor Ododo expressed delight during a grand reception held on Sunday at Aiyegunle Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area,organized by Okun Concerned Citizens to honour Prof. Naeem’s new role.
Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, the Governor praised Prof. Naeem’s wealth of experience, academic distinction, and visionary leadership, noting that his appointment is a “round peg in a round hole.”
He expressed optimism that under Prof. Naeem’s stewardship, Ajaokuta Steel will be revitalized and repositioned as a pillar of Nigeria’s industrial growth.
“Professor Naeem’s leadership is expected to usher in a new era for Ajaokuta Steel Company, restoring its relevance as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy,” Ododo stated.
The governor also extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for appointing a Kogi State indigene to lead the company.
The decision, he said, has reignited the people’s faith in a just and equitable Nigeria under the current administration.
Governor Ododo called on the people of Kogi and stakeholders across the country to support Prof. Naeem in his new role, assuring the company of the state’s full cooperation.
The reception was chaired by former Governor Yahaya Bello and attracted dignitaries from across the country.
Prof. Naeem, a specialist in Steel and Geophysics, is expected to bring transformative leadership to the company and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s industrial advancement.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
