The Ministry of Steel Development on Friday, 13th March 2026, held a formal handover ceremony as the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwu, transferred leadership to the new Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi.
Rimi was recently redeployed from the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to his new post.
This was contained in a statement by Tine-Iulun M. A, Assistant Director (Information & Public Relations), Ministry of Steel Development.
In his remarks during the ceremony held at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded him by the management and staff of the Ministry.
He reaffirmed his commitment to building on the achievements of his predecessor and working collaboratively with all stakeholders to advance the Ministry’s strategic objectives.
Ambassador Rimi noted that the steel sector remains a critical pillar for Nigeria’s industrialization and economic diversification. He pledged to promote policies and initiatives that will attract investment, enhance local production capacity, and strengthen the value chain within the steel industry.
Speaking earlier, Dr. Isokpunwu expressed appreciation to the management and staff of the Ministry for their cooperation and dedication throughout his tenure.
He highlighted key initiatives and progress recorded in advancing the Federal Government’s vision of revitalizing Nigeria’s steel sector.
Emphasizing the importance of the sector, he noted that no nation can attain sustainable industrial development without a vibrant and functional steel industry.
Congratulating Ambassador Rimi on his redeployment to the Ministry of Steel Development, Dr. Isokpunwu expressed confidence in his ability to provide effective leadership that would further strengthen the Ministry’s mandate to develop a dynamic and globally competitive steel industry in Nigeria.
He also urged the management and staff of the Ministry to extend to the new Permanent Secretary the same level of cooperation and support he enjoyed during his tenure.
The ceremony was attended by Directors, senior management staff, and other officials of the Ministry, who expressed their support and readiness to work with the new Permanent Secretary in delivering on the Ministry’s mandate.