CSO Petitions NASS Over NIOMCO-Premium Steel Agreement

Public Accountability & Transparency International, a civil society organization, submitted a petition to the House of Representatives on August 20, 2026, concerning the Sub-Lease and Operation Agreement between the National Iron Ore Mining Company (NIOMCO) and Premium Steel and Mines Limited. This petition led the House Committee on Steel Development, chaired by Hon. Zainab Gimba (Rep, Bama/Ngala/Kala-Balge), to initiate a preliminary investigation into the transaction and related procurement issues involving the Federal Ministry of Steel Development.

The committee's investigation is based on Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution and aims to ensure compliance with the Public Procurement Act, 2007. The petition raised concerns about the allocation of iron ore and its impact on the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited.

The committee has requested various documents, including the NIOMCO-Premium Steel agreement and procurement documents related to Ajaokuta, to be submitted within seven days. Failure to comply may result in the committee summoning relevant officials.