The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) have joined forces to address Nigeria’s pressing industrial challenges through technological innovation and research-driven solutions. This collaboration aims to reduce dependence on imported raw materials, improve local manufacturing capacity, and enhance Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness.
Speaking at the 2024 MAN Annual Research and Development Stakeholders’ Interactive Forum in Lagos, the Director-General of RMRDC, Prof. Hussaini Doko Ibrahim, emphasized the need for local industries to prioritize R&D as a pathway to self-reliance and economic transformation. He noted that excessive importation of raw materials not only drains foreign reserves but also hampers job creation and national industrial growth.
The President of MAN, Otunba Francis Meshioye, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that robust R&D is critical to unlocking Nigeria’s vast raw material potential and boosting industrial productivity. He pointed out that the manufacturing sector must embrace technology and innovation to overcome infrastructure deficits, supply chain disruptions, and foreign exchange volatility.
Both institutions underscored the urgency of accelerating the transition from research findings to commercially viable products. They called for stronger collaboration between research institutions, universities, and the private sector to bridge the gap between innovation and market application. This, they argued, would stimulate the production of competitive local goods, reduce the country’s import bills, and create more jobs.
In line with this, RMRDC highlighted its efforts in mappingMAN, RMRDC seek tech solutions to drive local manufacturing – Vanguard News and supporting industries with data and technical support to harness these resources effectively. The council also emphasized the importance of local content development, particularly in sectors like agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, and solid minerals.
Furthermore, MAN advocated for more government incentives and policy support to encourage private-sector investment in research and technology. They urged federal and state governments to prioritize funding and infrastructure that support industrial R&D.
The forum reaffirmed that science, technology, and innovation remain indispensable tools for transforming Nigeria’s industrial landscape. With strategic partnerships and increased investments in R&D, Nigeria can drive inclusive growth, reduce imports, and achieve sustainable industrial development. The MAN-RMRDC collaboration is thus seen as a pivotal step toward building a resilient and globally competitive manufacturing sector
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