By Oluwaseyi Otitoju and Olamide Ewuoso
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) and the SGC Group of Companies have commenced preliminary discussions on a strategic collaboration aimed at integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the Council’s digital and operational systems to enhance research management, innovation, data centralization, and global knowledge accessibility.
The proposed partnership, which was discussed during a meeting between the management of RMRDC led by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, and representatives of the SGC Group at the Council’s headquarters in Abuja, is expected to drive digital transformation within the Council and position RMRDC as a leading innovation-driven public institution in Africa.
Under the proposed initiative, the Nigerian Information Statistical System for Raw Materials and Products (NISSRAMP) will be enhanced through AI integration to centralize all completed research works undertaken by the Council since its establishment. The initiative is also expected to create a robust knowledge management hub that will connect research outputs with industry and market opportunities.
In addition, both parties are exploring the establishment of the RMRDC Global Raw Materials Educational Platform, a digital learning ecosystem that will enable learners from Nigeria and across the globe to earn internationally recognized certificates and degrees in raw materials research and development-related courses. The initiative is envisioned to position RMRDC as the first institution in West Africa to offer such specialized academic and professional certifications.
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Speaking during the meeting, the Chief Executive Officer of SGC Group, Oghojafor Daniel, commended Professor Ike-Muonso for his visionary leadership and commitment to modernizing the Council through innovation and technology-driven reforms.
Dr. Daniel stated that SGC Group is committed to aligning with RMRDC’s vision, particularly in the areas of data management, digital innovation, and value addition. According to him, the company intends to leverage AI-driven solutions to strengthen the Council’s global visibility, improve operational efficiency, and expand educational opportunities to both local and international audiences.
He further noted that the collaboration reflects SGC Group’s commitment to supporting institutions that prioritize research commercialization, technological advancement, and sustainable industrial development.
Responding, Professor Ike-Muonso emphasized the importance of adopting emerging technologies to improve institutional efficiency, service delivery, and Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global knowledge economy.
He explained that the proposed AI integration aligns with the Council’s broader modernization agenda and its determination to operate in line with global best practices.
“The initiative represents a strategic step toward positioning RMRDC as one of the leading public sector organizations in Nigeria to fully integrate Artificial Intelligence into its operational processes,” the Director-General stated.
Professor Ike-Muonso further noted that the collaboration would strengthen the Council’s international visibility, attract strategic partnerships, and reinforce its reputation as a forward-looking institution committed to innovation and excellence.
The proposed collaboration between RMRDC and SGC Group is expected to focus on the development of AI-powered systems designed to improve productivity, research dissemination, stakeholder engagement, and digital transformation across the Council’s operations.
The meeting marked the beginning of what both parties described as a potentially transformative partnership aimed at advancing technological innovation and value-driven development within Nigeria’s raw materials sector
