By Salifatu Guruza
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Plateau State Office, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with an industrial visit to Alhaji Jaafar Bakery and Poultry Equipment Fabricator in Jos.
The visit, which took place recently, forms part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to promote value addition, encourage the use of local raw materials, and support sustainable industrial growth across Nigeria.
The RMRDC delegation was led by the State Coordinator, Salifatu Guruza, alongside key officials and were received by the founder of the enterprise, Idris Jaafar Jaafar, at the company’s facility in the Terminus area.
Speaking during the visit, Jaafar recounted the company’s growth from a small welding workshop into a prominent fabrication hub serving both the bakery and poultry sectors in Plateau State. He noted that the company produces durable, cost-effective equipment tailored to local conditions, including ovens and incubators designed to run on both gas and electricity to address power challenges.
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Highlighting the purpose of the visit, Guruza stated that RMRDC’s mandate includes promoting the development and optimal utilization of Nigeria’s industrial raw materials, as well as supporting local industries through strategic engagement and collaboration.
During a tour of the facility, the team inspected a range of locally fabricated equipment such as industrial dough mixers, gas and electric ovens, egg incubators, chicken brooders, dryers, seed planters, maize crushers, and groundnut fryers. The company, which employs 23 workers, relies largely on locally sourced scrap metals and steel materials, reinforcing its contribution to local content development.
Despite its progress, the firm identified major challenges, including the rising cost of raw materials and erratic power supply. These constraints have increased production costs and forced reliance on diesel-powered generators, affecting efficiency.
Guraza in response, proposed several measures to support the company’s growth. These include facilitating partnerships to improve electricity supply, promoting renewable energy solutions such as solar power, and creating platforms for showcasing local innovations at trade fairs and investor forums. She also encouraged cooperative efforts among fabricators to reduce raw material costs through bulk purchasing.
The visit concluded with commendation for the company’s resilience and innovation, as RMRDC reiterated its commitment to fostering indigenous manufacturing and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported industrial equipment.
