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African Foundries Limited (AFL), a leading player in Nigeria’s steel manufacturing space, is making bold strides in industrial development, job creation, and clean energy adoption, reaffirming its position as a critical contributor to the country’s economic transformation.
During a recent visit to AFL’s steel plant in Ogijo, Ogun State, the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, lauded the company’s role in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
He said AFL’s work aligns perfectly with the federal government’s ambition to grow Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
The Minister commended AIG for transforming from a humble two-man operation to one of Nigeria’s largest employers, with over 14,000 staff spread across 33 businesses nationwide.
AFL, a subsidiary of African Industries Group (AIG), operates Nigeria’s largest steel mill and the biggest in sub-Saharan Africa. With advanced production facilities and CARES UK-certified steel products like Tiger TMT rebars, AFL is central to key infrastructure projects nationwide. Its high-quality steel is also exported to countries such as Senegal, Mali, Morocco, Benin Republic, and Togo, boosting Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings.
AIG’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Taiwo Okeowo in his welcome address said: “Our operations reflect our belief in Nigeria’s potential. We are not just producing steel; we are creating jobs, training local talent, and powering our plant with renewable energy to reduce environmental impact.”
The company’s impact extends to the community. The Ologijo of Ogijo, Oba Kazeem Gbadamosi, praised AFL for being a trusted partner and major employer in the area.
He noted that AFL has made significant investments in community training programs that empower local youth to take on technical roles in the steel sector.
“Contrary to the belief that these companies only exploit, AFL is training our people to work in the industry. That is a game-changer,” the monarch said. He, however, urged the company to prioritise employment for indigenes to ensure inclusive growth.
Minister Audu, who also visited AIG’s $600 million iron ore mine in Kaduna and its galvanized steel plant, acknowledged AFL’s wide-reaching impact, from mining to exports, stating that steel is the backbone of Nigeria’s industrial growth.
“There’s no way we can reach a $1 trillion economy without strengthening the steel industry,” the Minister said. “African Foundries is showing us what’s possible.”
As AFL continues to expand operations across eight Nigerian states, its blend of industrial excellence, environmental responsibility, and community empowerment is shaping the narrative of a stronger, self-sufficient Nigeria.
