By Abubakar Mikailu, Lukman Isah
In a renewed push to industrialize Nigeria through the strategic utilization of raw materials, the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has formalized a strengthened partnership with the Kaduna State Government. This follows a high-level courtesy visit by the Council to the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
The engagement, held at the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources’ Conference Room, formed part of RMRDC’s nationwide strategy to collaborate with states in converting local resources into drivers of industrial growth.
Though unavoidably absent due to national engagements, RMRDC’s Director-General/Chief Executive Officer, Professor Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, was represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resource Management, Mr. L.G. Suraj. Delivering the DG’s remarks, Mr. Suraj reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to Kaduna’s industrial and agricultural development.
“Kaduna remains a strategic partner in Nigeria’s industrial roadmap. Its abundant agricultural and mineral resources position the state as a pivotal player in the nation’s drive toward self-reliant industrialization,” Professor Ike-Muonso noted.
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Welcoming the delegation on behalf of Governor Uba Sani, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Abubakar Buba, expressed gratitude for the visit. He described RMRDC’s initiatives as “timely, impactful, and essential to achieving sustainable economic development.”
The Council used the occasion to highlight several ongoing and planned interventions in Kaduna, including:
- Comprehensive resource mapping across all 23 local government areas;
- Identification of investment-ready cottage and small-scale industries in each ward;
- Active promotion of Kaduna’s resource potential at major trade exhibitions;
- Establishment of a pilot laboratory chemical plant at NARICT, Zaria;
- Research and development support for anti-malarial herbal formulations and Moringa-based water treatment solutions;
- The launch of model resource-based industries such as the Castor Oil Plant and Hikima Fruit Juice Company.
He also highlighted past collaborations, including contributions to the Kaduna State Industrial Plan (1st–3rd Editions), and support for critical sectors such as seed distribution, livestock breeding programs, solar-powered cold chains, and value chain development for baobab and ginger.
Looking ahead, RMRDC proposed key areas for expanded cooperation:
- Allocation of land for a permanent Coordinating Office in Kaduna State;
- Scale-up of dairyand solar cold chain initiatives to underserved communities;
- Establishment of a Baobab processing facility and expanded seedling programs;
- Kaduna’s full participation in the Africa Raw Materials Summit (May 20–22, 2025) in Abuja;
- Joint hosting of the Ginger Development and Value Chain Investment Forum, scheduled for June 2025 in Kaduna.
In response, Hon. Buba assured the Council of the state’s willingness to support these proposals, pledging to communicate them to the Governor. He reiterated Kaduna’s commitment to partnerships that boost industrial productivity, enhance job creation, and strengthen the economy.
“We are committed to collaborations that create value for our people and position Kaduna as a leading hub for resource-based industrialization,” the Commissioner affirmed. The RMRDC remains committed to serving as a national catalyst for the sustainable development and industrial utilization of Nigeria’s raw materials. With Kaduna State’s cooperation, the Council believes the future of industrialization in the region is bright and full of promise.
