Nigeria is on the verge of a new era, anchored on innovation and resourcefulness, according to Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, Director-General, Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC).
The DG, in his remarks at the Investors Forum on Commercialisation of Indigenous Technologies held at the Council’s Research and Demonstration Plant Complex (RDPC) in Abuja, noted that the country is poised to transition from a raw material exporter to a producer of value-added goods.
“Fifty years ago, the vision of an industrialised Nigeria appeared to be a distant dream, hindered by resource dependency and an underdeveloped manufacturing sector. But today, I see a Nigeria on the verge of a new era, one anchored on the innovation and resourcefulness of our people,” he said.
The DG highlighted the Council’s significant investments in research and development, and the demonstration of technologies to facilitate Nigeria’s industrial growth.
He announced that several transformative technologies were ready for commercial scale-up, including castor oil processing, plaster of Paris, artemisia annua extraction, soap noodles production, and caustic soda.
“This forum is more than an exhibition of successful pilot projects,” Ike-Muonso continued. “It is a call to action. We invite industrialists and investors to engage with our experts, witness live demonstrations, and evaluate the strong investment case these technologies present”, he added.
The DG also highlighted the significance of the 30% Value Addition Bill, which had passed the Senate, awaiting concurrent action in the Federal House of Representatives.
Also speaking, Mohammed Lawal Buga underscored the role of R&D commercialisation in driving societal progress and economic expansion.
The event featured a tour of the RDPC facilities, where participants expressed satisfaction at the scale and sophistication of the equipment and processes developed.
“We have made significant strides in research and development,” said Chukwuma Ngaha, director, Directorate of Corporate Affairs.
“The DG has not left any stone unturned in ensuring RMRDC plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s industrial transformation.”


