By Aisha Mahmud & Obekpa Simon
In a strategic move to boost local economic development, the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has partnered with the Nasarawa State Chapter of the Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI) to flag off its annual empowerment program, themed “Building Skills, Creating Jobs, Securing Future and Driving Business Development.”
The event, held in Lafia, brought together entrepreneurs, policymakers, and development stakeholders to discuss innovative strategies for job creation and business development through skill acquisition and local raw materials processing.
Speaking at the event, Mr. A.Y. Alaku, the RMRDC State Coordinator, emphasized the importance of equipping individuals with practical, industry-relevant skills. He called for strengthened collaboration among government bodies, educational institutions, and the private sector to drive job creation and support MSMEs, especially in rural communities. He said that, “To secure the future, we must empower individuals with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.” He also urged entrepreneurs present at the event to embrace innovation and sustainable practices.
Mr. Alaku highlighted a few success stories of local entrepreneurs who had leveraged on training and innovation to transform small ventures into viable businesses, reinforcing the need for a supportive ecosystem that fosters entrepreneurial resilience and growth.
Also speaking at the event was the Chairman of NASSI, Nasarawa State Chapter, Mr Nidan Samson Manesseh commended the active participation of the MDAs and private sector representatives. He urged all stakeholders to remain committed to initiatives that drive entrepreneurship, skill development, and economic sustainability. The participants expressed a renewed commitment to driving positive change in their communities through actionable strategies and partnerships that encourage the development of the state’s raw materials.







