The Iron Rod and Steel Distributors Employers of Nigeria (IRSDEUN) has expressed strong support for the National Assembly’s efforts to address the issue of substandard steel products in the Nigerian market. In a statement released on Tuesday morning, Chief Gbenga Awoyale, the National President of IRSDEUN, praised the recent actions taken by the House of Representatives Committee on Steel Development.
The Committee’s recent initiative involves gathering detailed information from the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) regarding compliance with statutory obligations and production processes of steel producers. This move aims to ensure that reports of substandard products are validated and addressed effectively.
Awoyale commended this step, noting that it reflects a significant advancement towards improving industrial standards and protecting the Nigerian market from substandard steel. He highlighted the ongoing issues with SON’s effectiveness and expressed concerns about potential resistance from vested interests within SON that might undermine the efforts.
IRSDEUN’s statement also referred to a letter dated August 4, 2024, from the National Assembly’s House Committee on Steel Development to SON and FIRS. This letter requested information on compliance with relevant laws and regulations governing steel production in Nigeria. The reports are expected to be submitted to the National Assembly by Wednesday, August 28, 2024, as per the letter from the Committee Chairman, Hon. Zainab Gimba (PhD).
IRSDEUN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the National Assembly’s efforts and urged members of the Steel Development Committee to remain resolute in their mission to ensure the safety and quality of steel products in Nigeria.
