By Adaora Adibe
A distinguished retired Director from the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Dr. Nandom Abu has been appointed as the Director of the Materials Development Institute (MDI) Keffi, Nassarawa State.
The Materials Development Institute (MDI) is a collaborative initiative of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) Abuja and Nasarawa State University Keffi (NSUK). Its focus is on addressing Nigeria-specific challenges and opportunities related to raw materials, creating a knowledge base that will shape national policies and contribute to the country’s industrial development.
It was created to offer cutting-edge research programs in raw materials development, processing, and utilization and provide high-quality postgraduate programs, including Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), Master of Science (MSc), and PhD degrees.
The Institute was created with the following objectives:
- Promote the efficient use of raw materials and reduce dependence on imports
- Develop local expertise in raw materials economics and management
- Support industries in optimizing resource utilization and reducing waste
- Contribute to the country’s economic growth and sustainable development
Furthermore, the Institute key activities include:
- Research and Development (R&D) in raw materials economics and management
- Training and Capacity Building for students, professionals, and industries
- Collaboration with industries, government agencies, and international organizations
- Development of databases and information systems for raw materials in Nigeria
- Policy analysis and recommendations for sustainable raw materials management
Dr. Abu’s tenure at RMRDC before retirement, saw him serving as the Director of the Minerals and Materials Department D(MMDD), where he played a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s mineral resources development, having put in Thirty (30) years of meritorious service in Minerals Materials Development and Promotion.
Until his recent appointment as the Director of the Materials Development Institute (MDI), he was a Senior Lecturer with the Geology & Mining Department of the Nasarawa State University Keffi.
His expertise in research and materials innovation, wealth of experience, and leadership is expected to significantly strengthen MDI’s efforts in achieving its goal.







