By Abubakar Mukailu/ Lukman Isa
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) made a remarkable impact at the 46th Kaduna International Trade Fair, showcasing cutting-edge innovations in raw materials development. The event, which was held at the Kaduna Trade Fair Complex, attracted industry stakeholders, government officials, investors, and entrepreneurs eager to explore advancements in Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Speaking during the RMRDC Special Day event, the Director-General/CEO of the Council, Prof. Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, represented by the Director Investment Promotion and Consultancy Department, Mr. Lawal Suraj, highlighted the agency’s milestones in promoting the efficient utilization of Nigeria’s raw materials for sustainable industrialization.
With this year’s theme, “Promoting Efficiency in Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Trade Through Digital Transformation,” Prof. Ike-Muonso emphasized that RMRDC has been leveraging technology to revolutionize raw materials development, fostering research-driven innovations, and enhancing industrial efficiency.
The Director-General outlined several key achievements of the Council, including the introduction of Digital Platforms: Nigeria Raw Materials Information Management System (NRMIMS) and the Raw Materials E-Registration Portal (RMe-regP), which provide investors, policymakers, and manufacturers with comprehensive data on raw materials availability, location, and industrial potential in Nigeria. He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to industrial growth through digital transformation.
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The Council has strengthened collaborations with universities, research institutions, and industries to promote market-oriented research, ensuring that Nigeria’s industrial sector is driven by innovation, scientific development, and enhancing public awareness; through platforms such as “Raw Materials 360″ Online newspaper, and a Zoom Webinar Series, RMRDC has expanded its outreach, providing stakeholders with vital information and updates on raw materials development.
In a groundbreaking move, RMRDC has initiated a Bill at the National Assembly that mandates at least 30% local value addition to indigenous raw materials before export.
Prof. Ike-Muonso revealed that the Bill has passed its second reading, with a public hearing scheduled for March 5, February 2025. Once passed into law, the legislation will drive industrialization, create jobs, and boost Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
RMRDC is set to host the African Raw Materials Summit in 2025, bringing together industry experts, policymakers, and investors from across the continent to discuss innovations and strategies for advancing Africa’s raw materials sector. The Council has also developed a 10-year Strategic Roadmap in collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB) to guide Nigeria’s raw materials development agenda.
Prof. Ike-Muonso expressed profound gratitude to the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (KADCCIMA) for organizing the Trade Fair, as well as to the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, His Excellency Sen. Uba Sani, for creating an enabling business environment.
He urged all stakeholders to embrace innovation and collaboration, emphasizing that reducing dependence on imported raw materials is crucial for Nigeria’s industrial revolution.
With these developments, RMRDC continues to position Nigeria as a global leader in raw materials development, ensuring sustainable industrial growth and economic prosperity.
