By Nafisat Abdulrahman
The Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA) has honoured the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Professor Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, with a Merit Award of Excellence for his exceptional and strategic leadership.
The award was presented during a courtesy visit by a delegation from KADCCIMA led by its President, Mr. Farouk Suleiman, to the DG at the Council’s headquarters in Abuja, where the group met with the DG and other members of the RMRDC management team.
Presenting the award, the President of KADCCIMA commended the DG for his exceptional leadership and strategic direction in repositioning the Council. He noted that Professor Ike-Muonso has championed RMRDC as a key driver of sustainable value addition and industrial growth in Nigeria. According to him, the DG’s commitment to strengthening linkages between research, raw materials development and industry has significantly contributed to the nation’s drive for economic diversification.
Mr. Suleiman also made reference to the recently concluded 47th Kaduna International Trade Fair held in Kaduna, describing RMRDC’s participation as one of the most impactful engagements at the event. He noted that the importance of the Council’s presence at the fair cannot be overemphasised.
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He further appreciated the Director General for approving RMRDC’s participation and ensuring the Council’s financial commitment during the last two editions of the fair, describing the gesture as a demonstration of consistency and goodwill.
He recalled that during the 47th edition of the fair, the DG was represented by the Director of State Industrial Extension Services, Dr. Mrs. Obi, whose presence, according to him, reflected the Council’s seriousness and commitment. He added that KADCCIMA enjoys a strong and cordial working relationship with RMRDC, noting that Professor Ike-Muonso’s leadership continues to inspire confidence within the organised private sector.
Mr. Suleiman also emphasised the DG’s commitment to promoting value addition and job creation as key drivers of national prosperity.
Responding, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of RMRDC, Professor Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, expressed appreciation to KADCCIMA for the Merit Award bestowed on him. He noted that he is usually not inclined to accept such recognitions, but said he was honoured to receive the award from an institution with the strong track record and credibility that KADCCIMA has established over the years.
Professor Ike-Muonso used the opportunity to highlight some of the Council’s ongoing initiatives, including the development of the largest database on raw materials and their entire value chain. He explained that the project has already passed the first and second stages of its development process.
The Director General further stated that the Council has several areas of potential collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce and expressed satisfaction that Kaduna State continues to maintain a strong working relationship with RMRDC.
He also informed the delegation about the 30 Percent Value Addition Bill, which is currently awaiting presidential assent, noting that the legislation will have significant impact on Nigeria’s industrial growth by encouraging the local processing of raw materials.
Professor Ike-Muonso added that the Council remains open to supporting members of KADCCIMA and encouraged them to reach out whenever they require assistance, particularly in areas relating to specific raw materials where technical or developmental support may be needed.
