By Adaora Adibe
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST), Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye has commended the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) for launching its bold 10-year strategic plan aimed at revolutionizing Nigeria’s raw material sector.
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Presenting the welcome address at the RMRDC Programme Presentation and Dialogue Session – 2024 edition held at the Council’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Mrs. Esuabana praised the Council for forward-thinking, noting that the Roadmap is crucial fostering industrial development and achieving economic self-sufficiency.
She emphasized that the initiative will drive innovation, increase local sourcing of raw materials, and promote sustainable practice in the sector.
Mrs. Esuabana highlighted some aspects of the 10-year roadmap, which she strongly believes will define the future of RMRDC and the sector at large as follows;
Raw Material Management Information System: she pointed out the development and upgrading of a comprehensive management information system with several interconnected databases to support researchers, investors, and industry stakeholders. “This platform will house critical data on raw materials, enabling informed decision-making and facilitating investment”, she observed.
Research and Demonstration Plant Complex (RDPC): She said the vision includes expanding the complex to house 17 laboratories and cutting-edge machine development workshops. According to her, the facility is expected to be excellent for raw material testing and technology innovation which is crucial for driving industrial transformation.
Circularity and Repurposing of Raw Materials: she stated that this seeks technical support for a newly established center dedicated to circularity and repurposing of raw materials, this initiative she said will promote sustainability by developing new processes to repurpose raw materials and waste.
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Chemical Markets and Policy Center: she informed that it is the development of the market for chemical raw materials and associated policies to streamline the production and distribution of chemical raw materials, supporting industry growth and academic research.
“ Our road map aligns closely with the vision articulated by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in his keynote address, “Africa’s Natural Resources Shaping the Future,” delivered at the recently concluded 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, in his speech, president Tinubu highlighted the paradox of Africa’s vast natural resources wealth and the continent’s dependency on foreign markets. Africa exports raw materials only to re-import finished products at exorbitant prices, draining resources and stalling growth” she said.
She urged partners at the event to move beyond discussion to actionable partnerships with technical expertise as the blueprint for transforming Nigeria’s raw materials sector into a globally competitive and sustainable ecosystem. She said they should stay united by a shared commitment to developing indigenous raw materials and promoting sustainable industrialization in Nigeria.
“it is at this juncture that we seek your help. We need your technical expertise and collaborative partnerships to bring our vision to life. Whether you represent a donor agency, diplomatic mission, or a commercial bank, your role is vital in ensuring that RMRDC delivers on this ambitious roadmap. The stakes are high, but so are the rewards. Together, we can reshape Nigerian’s raw materials landscape and contribute significantly to Africa’s economic future “, she implored.
The Perm Sec also commended the Director General, Prof. Nnanyelugo M. Ike- Muonso, and the RMRDC management team for their relentless pursuit of excellence in raw material research and development. She said their commitment to innovation and industrial growth has laid the groundwork for the transformative journey ahead.
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