By Julian Osamoto
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) says Nigeria’s drive toward local raw materials utilisation, import substitution, and value addition remains critical to achieving sustainable industrial growth and economic diversification.
Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Council, Professor Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, stated this at the RMRDC in Abuja, while assessing the impact of the Federal Government’s economic and industrial policies on the manufacturing sector.
He said ongoing reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda have created opportunities to strengthen Nigeria’s raw materials value chain, encourage local production, reduce dependence on imported industrial inputs, and improve the competitiveness of indigenous industries.
According to him, the Federal Government’s emphasis on economic self-reliance and manufacturing growth aligns with the Council’s mandate to promote the development, utilisation, and sustainable management of Nigeria’s abundant raw material resources.
Professor Ike-Muonso noted that increased focus on Made-in-Nigeria products and domestic value chains is gradually stimulating industrial activities across key sectors of the economy.
He explained that the Council has intensified efforts to help industries identify locally sourced alternatives to imported raw materials while supporting research partnerships aimed at improving value addition and resource beneficiation.
The RMRDC boss also highlighted ongoing initiatives targeted at accelerating industrialisation, attracting investment, and supporting small and medium-scale enterprises through research-based solutions and industrial linkages.
Among the initiatives is the Council’s Nationwide Industrial Cluster Programme across the 774 local government areas, designed to transform local communities into production and industrial hubs capable of stimulating economic activities and job creation.
He said the programme supports the Federal Government’s broader economic transformation agenda, including the target of building a one-trillion-dollar economy and improving living standards.
Professor Ike-Muonso further described the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First Policy,” which prioritises locally made goods and indigenous contractors in public procurement, as a major step toward strengthening domestic production and reducing capital flight.
According to him, sustained investment in local industries and raw materials development remains essential for building a competitive industrial economy capable of generating employment and promoting inclusive growth.
He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to collaborating with government agencies, private sector operators, research institutions, and development partners to advance strategic raw materials development initiatives nationwide.
The Director-General expressed confidence that consistent policy support and increased investment in local content development would strengthen Nigeria’s manufacturing base and maximise the economic value of the country’s natural resources.
He also urged stakeholders across the public and private sectors to prioritise local raw materials utilisation, embrace innovation, and invest in value addition to support Nigeria’s industrial and economic transformation.
