By Adaora Adibe
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) is set to commission its newly established Raw Material Information System (RMIS) database. This state-of-the-art platform aims to become the go-to source for the Council, investors, manufacturers, researchers, and policymakers, offering advanced tools that support cutting-edge research and development.
The RMIS database is designed to provide comprehensive up-to-date information on various raw materials available within the country. The user-friendly portal serves as an interface for organizing and managing raw materials data, essential for driving industrial growth and strategic decision-making.
You Might AlsoLike
During the presentation of the database to the management team of RMRDC at the Council’s headquarters in Abuja on the 5th of September 2024, the Lianbeca Consulting Company (LCC), led by Prof. Bernard Odoh demonstrated the functionality of the RMIS database, showcasing its potential to revolutionize data accessibility in the raw materials sector.
Prof. Odoh observed that the database captures information that categorizes the raw materials into Energy, Mineral, and Agricultural resources allowing users to quickly locate information relevant to their specific needs. The system also integrates analytical tools that can assist users in evaluating the quality, access to the market, investment opportunity, value chains etc of raw materials for various industrial applications.
The Director General Prof. Nnayelugu M. Ike-Muonso applauded Lianbeca for their expertise and commitment to developing a robust system tailored to Nigeria’s industrial needs. He said the purpose of the presentation is to carry everyone along on the stages of development of the database. He said the initiative marks a significant milestone and will give RMRDC a strong base as a research institution.
“I want to thank Prof. Odoh for the work. He has done a good job, now we know we are heading somewhere. The gaps identified should be filled up before the official launching by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu. RMRDC state offices and retired staff can offer their expertise by making raw materials information available in their state. The RMRDC database is a crucial tool for achieving our mission of promoting the sustainable development of Nigeria’s raw materials”, the DG said.
The DG opined that the database will not only support industrial growth but also foster innovation by providing the necessary data to drive research and development. He informed that the RMIS will chart the way to developing the RMIS Africa which he wants the Council to take the lead.
Several directors raised important points regarding the enhancement of the database Director, Technology Development Department Engr. Emmanuel Kwaya applauded the Lianbeca team and suggested that state governors be integrated to provide additional information, especially in states where there is restiveness. He also said experts should be invited before the launch for validation.
Director, Agriculture and Agro-Alied Department Dr. Seb. Ebierekwe lauded the DG for providing such a good foundation in the short while he assumed office. He observed that the initiative will further authenticate and give credence to RMRDC. He said it is a good foundation that makes cross-regional and cross-generational impact. He pledged to support in ensuring the projects is super successful and sustainable as it will also generate huge revenue for the Council when fully utilized.
Other directors and deputy directors who also contributed, suggested that the database be made available to other staff for more ideas before the launch, provide a more standard categorization, adopt project management to avoid ambiguity, and authenticate samples amongst others.
Lianbeca Consulting, the developers of the RMIS database, expressed appreciation for the feedback and said that they are committed to incorporating the directors’ suggestions. Prof. Odoh, assured the audience that the company is dedicated to refining the platform to meet the needs of all users.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from Directors to support the successful rollout and adoption of the RMIS database. As the official launch approaches, the contribution from RMRDC will play a pivotal role in shaping a resource that is expected to drive the growth and development of Nigeria’s raw materials sector.
