By Dele Ogbodo
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, on Wednesday expressed Federal Government’s readiness through the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) to partner the African Development Bank (AfDB), UNESCO and other development partners to achieve the country’s raw materials value addition from the current 25% to 60% before 2034.
Nnaji, made the disclosure at the Program Presentation and Dialogue Session with Development Partners, the Diplomatic Community and Business Councils Which held at the RMRDC Headquarters in Abuja.
According to the Minister, he said RMRDC with the support of the AfDB, is at the cusp of developing a comprehensive 10-year roadmap to achieve a transformational leap in Nigeria’s raw material value addition, from the current 25% to a target of at least 60%.
The event, he added is dedicated to fostering robust partnerships between the Council, development partners, the diplomatic community, business councils, and commercial banks.
He said: “Today, we gather here with a shared objective—to explore innovative pathways and sustainable strategies that will unlock the immense potential of Nigeria’s raw material sector.
According to him, the ambitious goal represents a bold vision for Nigeria’s future—where our the country’s raw materials are no longer exported in their crude form but processed and enriched to maximize their value before leaving the country.
The Minister underscored importance of improving the value of our raw materials before export cannot be overstated, adding that by doing so, Nigeria stands to create more jobs, stimulate the growth of domestic manufacturing, and ultimately strengthen the value of the naira.
The greater utilization of local raw materials, Nnaji, reiterated will reduce the country’s dependence on imports and position Nigeria as a critical player in the global raw materials value chain.
However, the Minister said, we cannot achieve these milestones alone, explaining: “We are here today because we need the collective wisdom, expertise, and resources that each of you—our valued partners—bring to the table.
“The RMRDC’s 10-year roadmap outlines key strategic interventions, and this event serves as an invitation to each of you to collaborate with us on critical fronts, including: “Building Critical Capacity in Circularity and Repurposing: We must ensure that raw materials are utilized efficiently, reducing waste and embracing circular economy principles that can extend the lifecycle of materials. By working together, we can set a global example of sustainability.
“Developing Relevant Databases and Management Information Systems: One of the cornerstones of effective raw materials management is access to real-time, accurate data.
“The roadmap envisions the development of robust information systems that will serve researchers, investors, and industry leaders, ensuring that decision-making is grounded in sound knowledge.
“Upgrading Raw Material Testing Laboratories and Associated Technology/Machine Development Workshops: The future of raw material development hinges on advanced research, testing, and technology innovation.
“Upgrading these facilities will give our industries the tools to test and refine raw materials and develop the technologies necessary to drive our vision forward.”
The Minister said the need for collaboration and investment in these critical areas is urgent, stressing that President Bola Tinubu highlighted during his keynote address at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Africa’s wealth in natural resources should no longer be at the mercy of foreign markets, where we are forced to repurchase our raw materials in their finished forms at exorbitant prices.
“This is why this session is crucial – the future of Nigeria’s economic stability and prosperity hinges upon the partnerships we forge today.
“Nigeria’s raw materials sector holds vast potential not just for the growth of our economy but for creating a resilient, self-sustaining industrial base that benefits all Nigerians.
“Achieving our target of 60% value addition will create a more competitive Nigeria globally and lay the foundation for widespread economic empowerment and poverty reduction.” He said.
The Minister further stressed: “I urge each of you – development partners, members of the diplomatic community, business councils, and financial institutions – to consider it not only desirable but also expedient to collaborate with the RMRDC in these transformative efforts.
“With your support, we can develop the critical capacities necessary to usher in a new era of raw material utilization that will define the future of Nigeria’s industrial landscape.
“In a special way therefore, I thank the African Development Bank for offering to co-create the 10-year development plan with the RMRDC.”
He commended the Director General/CEO of the Council, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, for his timely intervention in the country’s raw materials sector, adding, this overture is highly commendable.
“We urge and encourage others to come on stream. Your support will quicken our pace to the desired target.” he said.
In conclusion, he added: “Let me paint a picture of what we can achieve together…a Nigeria where raw materials are no longer seen as mere commodities but as engines of growth, innovation, and sustainability…a Nigeria where local industries thrive, creating jobs and opportunities for millions and a Nigeria that is a global leader in raw material development, setting the standard for value addition, circularity, and environmental stewardship.”
According to him, the vision is possible only with the quality of partnerships and collaborations that is established today, adding: “I look forward to engaging in discussions and seeing how we can work together to build a better, more prosperous future for Nigeria and all who partner with us.”