By Mustapha Shettima, Alfaya Jibrilla, & Mohammed Umar
The Overseeing Director of the State Industrial, Extension Services Department (SIESD) of Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Dr. (Mrs.) Chima Obi, led a high-powered delegation on a follow-up visit to the Borno State Coordinating Office. Accompanied by Deputy Directors Nasiru Tambuwal, SIESD; S.M. Bello, North East State Office Divisions, and Surajo Musa, Investment Division, the team assessed progress and ongoing projects across the state for a sustainable industrial development.
Dr. Obi highlighted key initiatives such as the commodity price index surveys, which track market prices, availability, and seasonal trends, as vital tools for shaping policy and attracting investment. Industrial visits across the state are also underway to evaluate operational capacity, identify challenges, and promote the use of local raw materials for value addition.
Central to the discussions was the proposed 30% Value Addition Bill, which mandates a minimum of 30% processing of local raw materials before export. According to Mr. Tambuwal, this move aims to stimulate economic growth, generate employment, and boost Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness.
Dr. Obi emphasized the adoption of a Performance Management System (PMS) to improve project execution and ensure alignment with national goals. She also urged the Borno office to mobilize efforts ahead of the upcoming Investors’ Forum, which will spotlight one key raw material from each agro-based and mineral resource sector where the state holds a comparative advantage.
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She affirmed that the success of these initiatives in Borno is essential for driving Nigeria’s industrialization agenda and building a resilient, diversified economy which is the core of RMRDC.
