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By Ode Hembadoon
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) is set to collaborate with INTERIS SAS/DE SMET on the production of ethanol using agricultural raw materials in Nigeria. The move was disclosed during a courtesy visit to the Director General of RMRDC, Professor Nnanyelugo Martins Ike-Muonso at Abuja, by a delegation from INTERIS SAS/DE SMET, led by the project Development Manager, Mr. Guy Van De Boosche,
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The meeting, held at the Director General’s boardroom, was aimed to explore potential areas of partnership in ethanol production, with emphasis on utilizing cassava, maize, molasses, and other non-food alternatives.
During the discussions, Mr. Van De Boosche shared insights on the technical processes involved in producing ethanol from various agricultural inputs. He noted that INTERIS SAS is a pioneer in this technology, with global expertise currently deployed in countries such as Pakistan, which ranks as the third-largest ethanol producer globally. He emphasized Nigeria’s strategic advantage, highlighting its vast availability of raw materials and its potential to become a key player in global ethanol production, thereby reducing its reliance on imported fossil fuels and enhancing economic stability.
Van De Boosche also mentioned the company’s capacity to produce fertilizers from phosphate, a mineral that is found in abundance across Nigeria.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the collaboration, concerns were raised about the use of staple food crops for ethanol production.
Director, Agricultural and Agro-Allied Department (AAD) Dr. Sab Eberiekwe, cautioned against diverting food crops such as cassava and maize for fuel, citing food security concerns. He suggested exploring sugar beet as a viable alternative and disclosed that the Council has already piloted a project on biofuel production using algae, a non-food and environmentally sustainable source.
In response, the Director General RMRDC Professor Nnanyelugo Martins Ike-Muonso expressed optimism about the partnership, noting that such collaboration aligns with RMRDC’s strategic objective of achieving at least 30% value addition to raw materials before export. However, he echoed concerns about the use of staple crops and advised that INTERIS SAS work with the Council to explore alternative raw materials for ethanol, alcohol, and biofuel production.
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Prof. Nnanyelugo also used the occasion to introduce the upcoming African Raw Materials Summit, scheduled to take place from May 20–22, 2025. He encouraged the visiting team to showcase their technological and engineering capabilities at the event, which will feature participants from 72 African countries.
The summit, he noted, provides a unique platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and drive the continent’s industrial development through sustainable use of raw materials.
