By Lukman Isah
In a groundbreaking move set to transform Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) and the Centre for Energy Research and Training (CERT), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, are on the brink of signing a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that promises to boost national research and development (R&D) on solid minerals and rare-earth elements.
The collaboration will bring together RMRDC’s mandate on resource development and CERT’s cutting-edge nuclear and materials characterization capabilities, forming a synergy that could redefine mineral exploration and climate-smart agriculture in Nigeria.
The initiative took place on September 5, 2025, when a delegation from RMRDC, led by the Director, Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Department, Mr. A.S. Kollere, visited CERT in Zaria. Mr. Kollere represented the Director-General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso. The team was received by CERT Director, Prof. Sunday Jonah, and his senior staff. During the visit, both parties engaged in technical discussions, toured CERT’s world-class nuclear facilities, and reviewed the key objectives of the MoU. The visit culminated in a shared commitment to drive scientific collaboration that supports Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
The MoU outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration in several areas: geo-mapping and geochemical analysis, where RMRDC will identify and map rare-earth element deposits while CERT conducts high-precision analyses using techniques such as neutron activation analysis, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and gamma spectroscopy; climate-smart agriculture through the establishment of a state-of-the-art soil-analysis and agricultural extension laboratory to promote sustainable farming practices; manpower development by training RMRDC staff in nuclear and materials science at CERT; and technical services and joint research, with CERT providing non-destructive testing and analytical services to support joint research projects.
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During the visit, the RMRDC team toured CERT’s sophisticated research infrastructure, including the Chinese-designed 30 kW Miniature Neutron Source Reactor (MNSR), which has been operational since 2005 and recently converted to low-enriched uranium (LEU). They witnessed live demonstrations of XRF screening on columbite-tantalite samples and visited CERT’s radioactive waste management facility, the only licensed one of its kind in Nigeria. Also showcased were locally engineered voltage stabilizers developed for nucleonic gauges, highlighting the centre’s capabilities in applied innovation.
Prof. Jonah emphasized CERT’s expertise in soil fertility mapping, environmental pollution studies, and its role in training researchers from across West Africa. He noted that CERT’s focus remains on exploration and quantification, with the downstream development of mineral resources falling under the purview of the Ministry of Mines and private sector stakeholders.
With the MoU now in its final stages, the next step will be the formation of a Joint Technical Committee to oversee its implementation. This committee will coordinate research efforts, monitor progress, and facilitate knowledge exchange between both institutions.
The RMRDC delegation included Deputy Director Mr. Auwal Azare, Kaduna State Coordinator Mr. Mutallab Jibrin Shehu, Mr. Usman Bawa, and RMRDC 360 Kaduna Correspondent Mr. Lukman Isah. CERT’s host team featured Prof. Balogun, Dr. M. Tukur, Mrs. Rose Ada Onoja, and Mal. Aliyu Saidu, Head of Materials Science and Development at CERT.
This strategic partnership reflects a shared vision to harness Nigeria’s natural resource potential through innovation, research, and human capital development. By aligning scientific expertise with national needs, RMRDC and CERT are paving the way for Nigeria to emerge as a continental leader in rare-earth minerals research and sustainable agricultural technologies.
