By Oluwaseyi Otitoju and Olamide Ewuoso
The Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, has called for deeper collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports and accelerate industrial development.
Speaking at a strategic inter-agency session held at the RMRDC headquarters in Abuja, the DG emphasized that Nigeria’s economic diversification goals can only be achieved through coordinated institutional partnerships. He noted that the effective management of the nation’s abundant raw materials requires synergy with key agencies like the NCS, whose operations directly impact trade flows and industrial inputs.
Prof. Ike-Muonso highlighted the persistent challenge of heavy reliance on imported raw materials and finished goods, warning that it continues to strain foreign exchange, weaken local industries, and limit job creation. He stressed the need for both agencies to align strategies, particularly in reinforcing import substitution policies and discouraging the importation of raw materials that are readily available within the country.
The RMRDC boss further advocated for a review of tariff structures to favour local production, improved data sharing between both institutions, and stronger measures to combat smuggling and illegal importation. According to him, promoting value-added exports and facilitating smoother export processes will enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
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He also underscored the importance of capacity building, policy harmonization, and the establishment of a monitoring framework to track progress on joint initiatives. He expressed confidence that the collaboration would yield practical outcomes capable of boosting local industries, creating jobs, and strengthening economic resilience.
In a related address, Managing Partner and Transaction Advisor at West African Monbat Ltd, Ike Willie-Nwobu, described the partnership between RMRDC and NCS as “historic, symbolic, and reflective” of the critical roles both institutions play in national development.
He commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its contributions to national revenue, trade facilitation, and economic security, noting its evolving role in diplomacy and international relations. He also acknowledged RMRDC’s efforts in driving industrial policy, innovation, and capacity development.
Willie-Nwobu proposed several initiatives to deepen the partnership, including a national inventory management programme, joint awards and recognition schemes, annual policy dialogues, and the establishment of a joint economic commission and research collaboration framework.
He concluded by urging both agencies to leverage their combined strengths to enhance Nigeria’s industrial growth and economic transformation.
Responding, the team leader, Comptroller C.O. Eyakwaire, commended the RMRDC for its efforts in promoting the utilization of local raw materials in Nigeria. She noted that the session had been enlightening, adding that the team gained valuable insights into the raw materials sector.
She further observed that many of Nigeria’s raw materials are traded without adequate value addition, a situation she said hinders the country’s industrial growth and economic potential.
Comptroller Eyakwaire concluded by stating that the Nigeria Customs Service looks forward to sustained engagement and stronger collaboration with the Council.
