By Cosmas Emmanuel
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Anambra State Coordinating Office Awka, actively participated in the 2026 International Hybrid Conference of the Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, held under the theme “Sustainable Engineering for a Resilient Future.”
The two-day conference, hosted at the ASUU Secretariat, UNIZIK, convened academias, researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and international experts to deliberate on innovative engineering solutions addressing climate change, resource scarcity, technological disruption, and socio-economic challenges. The event provided a strategic platform for cross-sectoral dialogue and knowledge exchange aimed at fostering sustainable development.
Delivering her goodwill message on behalf of the Director-General/CEO of RMRDC, the State Coordinator, Dr. (Mrs.) Uche Arinze-Nwosu, highlighted engineering profession as a critical driver of sustainable transformation and national resilience. She commended the Faculty of Engineering and the University Management for organizing a timely and impactful conference that aligns with national development priorities.
She outlined key statutory functions of the Council, including the systematic exploitation and development of raw material resources; formulation of policy guidelines and action programmes on raw materials acquisition; promotion of in-plant research and development capabilities; standardization and certification of raw materials; establishment of raw materials analysis laboratories and organizing workshops, seminars, and exhibitions to encourage local sourcing and value addition.
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The State Coordinator emphasized that sustainable engineering solutions must be anchored in locally available raw materials. She noted that strengthening local content utilization enhances resilience against global supply chain disruptions and foreign exchange volatility, while also stimulating domestic industrialisation.
The keynote address was delivered on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Works, Dr. Dave Umahi, by Engr. Dr. Chikaodinaka Ugwuanyi. In a comprehensive and inspiring presentation, he underscored the urgency of embedding sustainable engineering practices in Nigeria’s development trajectory.
He highlighted the Federal government’s commitment to transformative infrastructure projects that prioritise durability, climate resilience, cost-effectiveness, and inclusive growth.
The RMRDC stand had a display of the Council’s mandate, programmes, and initiatives designed to promote the development and optimal utilisation of Nigeria’s abundant raw materials for industrial growth. This exhibition stand attracted high-profile dignitaries, stakeholders, researchers, and students who interacted with the RMRDC team to gain more information about the Council. RMRDC’s participation in the conference significantly strengthened institutional linkages, generated increased interest in the Council’s services, and reinforced its strategic role in advancing sustainable engineering solutions. The engagement further aligns with national efforts to promote value addition, climate-resilient infrastructure, and a self-reliant industrial economy.
