By Halima Olufadi and Aisha Mujeli
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has conducted a comprehensive strategic engagement and capacity-building workshop designed to strengthen the competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria. The initiative, held at RMRDC’s headquarters auditorium and themed “Enhancing MSME Competitiveness through HS Codes, Standardization and Regulatory Alignment,” represents a significant step toward improving industrial competitiveness, facilitating trade, and optimizing the utilization of Nigeria’s abundant raw material resources.
Deputy Director, Directorate of National Competitiveness Strategy and Special Projects (DNCS & SP), John Marinho, representing the Director-General in his opening remarks, emphasized the critical importance of bridging the gap between regulatory standards and MSME operational realities. Marinho highlighted that the engagement would create a vital platform for synergy between Research and Development institutions and the business community, enabling the transformation of research outcomes into viable industrial applications and market-driven innovations.
Chairman of the MSME Abuja Chapter, Honorable Simon Leshe, commended RMRDC’s proactive approach in organizing the workshop to enlighten MSMEs about critical industry standards and regulatory requirements. In his remark, Leshe emphasized the workshop’s significance in promoting industrial competitiveness and fostering sustainable economic growth. He noted that such collaborative programs between RMRDC and MSMEs are essential for driving innovation and development across Nigeria’s business sector.
Facilitated by Sir Henry Eteama, the workshop was specifically designed to equip MSMEs with essential technical knowledge, regulatory insights, and strategic partnerships necessary to drive local substitution initiatives, product optimization, and export readiness. Key discussion topics included comprehensive coverage of Harmonized System (HS) codes, the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) system, standardization models, and various regulatory frameworks essential for business success in both domestic and international markets.
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The workshop incorporated extensive practical learning components, featuring hands-on sessions where participants practiced HS code classification exercises and learned to map their business activities to appropriate ISIC codes. These technical skills are crucial for MSMEs seeking to engage in international trade and ensure regulatory compliance.
Group discussions provided valuable opportunities for participants to identify common barriers MSMEs face regarding competitiveness and compliance while recommending specific institutional support needed from RMRDC.
The interactive format facilitated meaningful networking among participants, allowing them to share business experiences and discuss entrepreneurial challenges. Zainab Binta of Zatar Multi Dynamic Enterprise shared valuable insights from her entrepreneurial journey, particularly emphasizing prudent financial management and cautioning against excessive borrowing practices that could undermine business sustainability.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Chima Ogbonna expressed sincere appreciation to RMRDC for organizing the comprehensive workshop and praised the council’s sustained commitment to supporting MSMEs and promoting industrial growth throughout Nigeria. The initiative represents a significant milestone in building a more competitive and sustainable MSME sector that aligns with global trade standards and regulatory requirements.
