A new leadership phase has begun in Nigeria’s industrial administration following the official exchange of roles between top civil servants in two key ministries.
At a formal handover ceremony held in Abuja, Isokpunwu Christopher Osaruwanwem and Nura Abba Rimi swapped positions as Permanent Secretaries of the Federal Ministry of Steel Development and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.
The redeployment was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of efforts to strengthen administrative leadership and improve service delivery in ministries central to Nigeria’s industrial growth.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Osaruwanwem, now Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, praised Ambassador Rimi’s professionalism and leadership, describing him as well-equipped to drive progress in the steel sector.
Reflecting on his time as the pioneer Permanent Secretary of the steel ministry, Osaruwanwem highlighted achievements in establishing the ministry’s structure, managing resources, and supporting policy direction for the development of Nigeria’s steel industry.
He emphasized the strategic importance of the sector, noting that a strong steel base is critical to national industrialization, reducing reliance on imports, conserving foreign exchange, and attracting investment.
Osaruwanwem expressed confidence that his successor would build on existing gains and urged ministry staff to continue their cooperation.
In his remarks, Ambassador Rimi described his new role as an honour and pledged to consolidate on the progress made in the ministry. He commended the decision by President Tinubu, describing the redeployment as timely and strategic.
Rimi stressed the importance of dedication in the civil service, regardless of postings, and called for teamwork to achieve the ministry’s mandate. Drawing from over three decades in the foreign service, he reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s steel sector.
He also acknowledged the support of the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, and the Minister of State, John Owan Enoh, describing the ministry’s workforce as professional and collaborative.
In a goodwill message, the Director of Metallurgical Raw Materials Development and Investment Promotion, Mr. Ime Ikrikpo, said the transition reflects the strong synergy between the steel and industry sectors, noting past collaborations such as the National Industrial Revolution Plan.
Also speaking, the Director of Human Resource Management, Mrs. Ijeoma Idika, described the handover as smooth and exemplary, commending the professionalism of the civil service.
The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of handover documents in the presence of ministry officials and media representatives.