The House of Representatives Committee on Steel Development has identified sub-standard iron rods as a major cause of frequent building collapses in Nigeria.
During an interactive session with the Nigerian Society of Engineers in Abuja on Wednesday, the committee’s Chairman, Zainab Gimba, discussed the issue and called for a united effort to tackle it.
Gimba revealed that recent investigations found discrepancies in the sizes of iron rods sold in Nigeria. She said that 10 mm rods are actually 7.56 mm, 12 mm rods are 9.25 mm, and 16 mm rods are 11.25 mm. She also noted that fake iron rods are being transported openly, with little action from supervising agencies.
“We must remember that we need to collaborate extensively with the legislature to find urgent and sustainable solutions to the ugly and unfortunate problem of proliferation of sub-standard iron rods in Nigerian markets,” Gimba said. “This issue has led to serious cases of incessant building collapse, causing multiple deaths of innocent Nigerians.”
Gimba assured that the committee is committed to working closely with stakeholders to address the problem. She praised President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to improve the steel sector by creating a dedicated ministry with two ministers.
“He has adequately displayed passion by creating the ministry for steel development, with two ministers, to see to the speedy development of the steel sector,” she said. “This will provide Nigerians with the needed material at an affordable cost, while boosting the nation’s revenue generation.”
Gimba emphasized the importance of the steel industry in diversifying Nigeria’s economy and creating jobs, similar to practices in developed countries like Russia, the United States, and India.
“Steel can overwhelmingly diversify the Nigerian economy and create employment opportunities,” she said. “Therefore, all hands must eagerly be on deck to align with Mr. President’s vision for the speedy development of the steel industry and reduce the country’s dependence on the oil industry.”
The committee plans to investigate the issue further and take action against those involved in the distribution of sub-standard iron rods.
