The Raw Material Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has called on Nigerians to intensify efforts in promoting locally sourced raw materials to reduce import dependence and conserve foreign exchange. This plea was made by RMRDC’s director-general, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso at a valedictory session honouring RMRDC’s first governing board chairman, the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, on October 29, 2024, at the RMRDC headquarters in Abuja.
The late Iwuanyanwu, a figure instrumental in shaping the council’s vision, remains a symbol in Nigeria’s push for self-reliance through local resource utilisation. Ike-Muonso highlighted that the leadership of Iwuanyanwu and former director-general, Prof. Oluremi Aribisala laid a foundation that enabled Nigeria’s industrial growth through strategic initiatives focusing on local raw material development. “His foresight in creating policies to develop and utilise Nigeria’s raw materials has set a standard that drives our current efforts to decrease import reliance,” Ike-Muonso said.
The RMRDC head explained that the Council’s collaboration with the National Assembly has led to a draft bill mandating at least 30 per cent local processing before export, a move to deepen Nigeria’s industrialisation. “Chief Iwuanyanwu, with unmatched dedication, helped establish a path toward economic independence,” he added.
Reflecting on Iwuanyanwu’s multi-faceted impact, Ike-Muonso said, “He was not only an engineer and visionary industrialist but a humanist and philanthropist. He left a legacy in public service that challenges all Nigerians to adopt the values of integrity, excellence, and selfless dedication.” Condoling the bereaved family, he assured them of the council’s commitment to upholding Iwuanyanwu’s values.
RMRDC’s pioneer director-general, Aribisala noted that Iwuanyanwu’s leadership extended beyond policy-making. “In 1987, he and I were tasked to kick-start what is now RMRDC, with a mandate to foster local resource development and research coordination for material acquisition and conservation,” she stated, adding that Iwuanyanwu prioritised public service without indulgence in personal gain or entitlement.
His leadership emphasised openness and partnership, fostering a culture of accountability that enabled RMRDC to build trust across sectors and establish public-private partnerships. “He was committed to transparency and trust, believing in a united front for the council’s mission,” Aribisala said, urging the RMRDC to sustain this legacy by nurturing innovation and creating an environment where professionals feel valued and empowered.
Representing the Iwuanyanwu family, Dr. Jeff Odinaka expressed gratitude to the RMRDC and board members for honouring the late pioneer chairman. He recommended similar speeches on Iwuanyanwu’s values and legacy be shared during government board induction ceremonies to inspire other public servants. He further noted that Iwuanyanwu continued serving until he passed as the president-general of the Ohanaze Ndi Igbo, a testament to his lifelong commitment to Nigeria’s development and unity.
As the nation mourns, the RMRDC leadership and its board are charged with sustaining Iwuanyanwu’s vision, cementing Nigeria’s progress toward a self-sustained industrial economy built on the foundation of locally sourced and processed raw materials.
