By Otoikhila Emmanuel
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, has hosted a sensitization programme aimed at enlightening citizens in the South-South zone about key policies, programmes, and achievements of the Federal Government under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The event, themed “Sensitization of Citizenry on Federal Government Interventions – South-South Milestone”, was held at the Federal Secretariat, Aduwawa, Benin City, Edo State. It brought together stakeholders from government agencies, civil society organizations, federal contractors, and members of the public.
Declaring the event open, the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris Malagi, represented by Mr. Ejodamen E. Daniel, South-South Zonal Head, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to transparent communication of government initiatives across all regions.
Guest Speaker Dr. Edegbe Solomon delivered an insightful lecture on federal interventions and how citizens can access and benefit from them. He highlighted several ongoing programmes, including:
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- Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND)
- Presidential CNG Initiative
- NNDC Youth Internship Scheme
- National Talent Export Programme
- Nigeria Consumer Credit Corporation
- Nigeria Youth Academy
- Bank of Industry Micro and Innovation Development (IDICE) Schemes
- South-South Agricultural Livelihood Improvement Project (LIFE-ND), which disbursed over ₦500 million to 1,797 farmers in Edo State
- Infrastructure projects such as new educational facilities and ICT upgrades at institutions across Delta and Edo States.
Dr. Solomon emphasized the need for citizens to be proactive in seeking opportunities and to leverage government initiatives to improve their livelihoods.
In a goodwill message, the Acting State Coordinator of RMRDC, Engr Otoikhila Emmanuel, conveyed greetings from the Council’s Director-General, Prof. Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, and outlined the Council’s mandate to promote local raw material development, facilitate industrial linkages, and support investment in processing technologies.
He also highlighted the Council’s recent achievements, including: the campaign for the raw materials 30% Value Addition Bill, currently undergoing legislative processes; approval for tax incentives for industries who utilize local raw materials by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology among many others.
Engr. Emmanuel commended President Tinubu’s administration for prioritizing infrastructure, agriculture, and poverty reduction. He urged continued action to ease economic challenges facing citizens, while reaffirming the Council’s commitment to supporting national development.
Also in attendance were dignitaries including Mrs. Felicia N. Edokpolor, Esq., Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Business, Trade and Cooperatives (representing Governor Monday Okpebholo), heads of MDAs, representatives of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, and civil society groups.
The event concluded with a call for continued collaboration between government institutions and citizens to maximize the impact of federal interventions and drive inclusive national development.
