By Adaora Adibe, Ogunwusi Oluwatola
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has launched an intensive training program for its staff on the Harmonized System (HS) Code, aiming to build institutional capacity for more effective classification, monitoring, and trade facilitation of the country’s raw materials.
The training held recently and was organised by the Directorate of National Competitiveness Strategy and Special project (NCS& SP) of RMRDC at the Council’s headquarters in Abuja is part of the Council’s broader agenda to align Nigeria’s raw materials sector with international trade standards. The Harmonized System Code, developed by the World Customs Organization, is a standardized numerical method of classifying traded products, essential for tariffs, trade policy, and economic analysis.
Speaking at the opening session, Director General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnayelugo M. Ike-Muonso, who was represented by the Director, Directorate of National Competitiveness Strategy and Special Project, Dr. Valeri Ehimiaghe emphasized the importance of the initiative as a testament to RMRDC’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and strategic positioning of RMRDC in global development.
“let us be reminded of the critical role RMRDC plays in Nigeria’s Nigeria’s industrial and economic growth. Our mandate to drive sustainable industrialization through raw materials development is more relevant than ever”, the DG explained.
You Might AlsoLike
He said the program is also designed to equip staff with the tools and mindset needed to excel in an increasingly competitive global market, which aligns with the vision of RMRDC in one of her flagship initiatives of the proposed legislation mandating a minimum of 30% value addition to raw materials before export. This policy, he said, is not just about compliance; it is about transforming Nigeria’s industrial landscape. Noting that by adding value locally, our locally, we protect our natural resources, create jobs, foster domestic processing capabilities, and enhance our global competitiveness.
The DG urged the management staff to champion this policy by understanding the implications and drive its implementation across sectors, stating also that the effort is not confined to Nigeria boarder only as Council will be hosting a historic gathering of over 72 African nations and global stakeholders in the Africa Raw Materials Summit which will hold from 20th to 22nd May, 2025.
The Director, National Competitiveness Strategy and special project Directorate, Dr. Valeri Ehimiaghe, presenting her address, urged participants to engage in the training for quality learning as they are the leaders who would position RMRDC to a greater height. She said the facilitator of the training is well equipped to give the necessary training that will lead to RMRDC transformation in that regard.
The training was facilitated by Engineer Obassi Ettu, from the Department of Research and Demonstration Complex (RDCP), a renowned expert in industrial systems and trade classification. He highlighted the need for accurate product classification, stating, proper use of the HS code is not only vital for regulatory compliance, but it also directly impacts revenue generation, market access, and data-driven decision making for industrial growth among many other things.
Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative and the opportunity to build capacity in an area increasingly vital to the council’s mandate. The training also provided a platform for strategic dialogue on aligning industrial development policies with international trade frameworks.
.
