…Initiative to create 5,000 jobs, targets N500bn annually
By Dele Ogbodo
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), an agency under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, has made a significant advancement in its statutory mandate through enhancing local competence in raw materials testing across the country with the acquisition of a state-of-the-art x-ray fluorescence spectrometer for raw materials analysis.
The equipment unveiled by the Director General (DG)/CEO of the Council, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, is set to bolster local expertise in raw materials testing, create 5,000 jobs, and increase revenue to the coffers of government.
Addressing a cross section of stakeholders and members of the media during the week, at the Headquarters of the RMRDC in Maitama, Abuja, the DG, underscored that the acquisition of the X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer represents a key milestone in RMRDC’s efforts to foster the development of Nigeria’s raw materials sector.
“This equipment will enable us to precisely analyze the composition of raw materials, which is essential for their development and efficient utilization.” he explained.
He described the X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer as a handheld, non-destructive testing tool that utilizes X-rays to excite the atoms in a sample, causing them to emit characteristic X-rays, acknowledging that these emissions are used to identify and quantify the elements present in the sample in real time.
“This equipment will allow the Council to provide accurate and reliable analysis of all types of raw materials, facilitating their development and utilization in Nigeria,” he added.
Professor Benard Odoh, a Professor of Geophysics and RMRDC Consultant on Raw Materials Sourcing and Data Analysis, commended RMRDC for its efforts to advance Nigeria’s raw materials sector. “This equipment will reduce our dependence on foreign laboratories for raw materials testing and will contribute to the growth of our local economy,” he said.
The acquisition of the X-Ray Spectrometer, the DG asserts is expected to create 5,000 jobs in the raw materials sector and generate an additional N500 billion in government revenue annually, buttressing that it is also anticipated to support the development of Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, thereby reducing the nation’s reliance on imported goods.
In his remarks, Mr. Anthony Okereke, Overseeing Director of the Minerals and Materials Development Department (MMDD), stated that the equipment will provide accurate information about minerals in any location.
He said: “It will assist in identifying the most profitable sites for mineral beneficiation plants. The data from the sample analysis will enrich our Raw Materials Information System (RMIS). The ability to detect rare elements will also support the development of highly advanced technologies. Additionally, we plan to use this equipment to build capacity among our staff and relevant agencies for a stipulated fee.”
It is important to note that RMRDC’s initiatives align with its mandate to promote the development of Nigeria’s raw materials sector, support the growth of the local economy, and reduce dependence on foreign goods.
The X-Ray Spectrometer is, therefore, a vital addition to RMRDC’s laboratory equipment, poised to drive the development of Nigeria’s raw materials sector, stimulate the growth of the manufacturing industry, and reduce the country’s reliance on imports.
