In a strategic move to bolster Nigeria’s economic growth and enhance its global standing, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to improving the country’s competitiveness in raw materials and products development.
This renewed commitment was highlighted at the National Consultative Committee on Competitiveness (NCCC) conference, which convened stakeholders from diverse sectors to deliberate on the implementation of the National Strategy for Competitiveness in Raw Materials and Products Development in Nigeria.
During the keynote address, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, highlighted the critical role of transforming Nigeria’s rich raw material resources into high-quality products.
“Nigeria is endowed with a wide range of raw materials, including solids, metals, energy minerals, and agro-based materials. However, possessing these resources alone does not ensure economic success,” Nnaji remarked. “It is essential to develop these raw materials into premium products to drive national growth and enhance our global competitiveness.”
Prof. Nnanyelugo M. Ike-Muonso, Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of the National Strategy.
“This domestically developed strategy, which integrates innovation, science, and technology into raw materials and product development, represents a transformative approach in our national development efforts. Its effective execution will significantly curb our dependency on imported raw materials and products,” Ike-Muonso stated.
Esuabana Nko Asanye, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, presided over the opening ceremony and urged collaboration among stakeholders to realize the strategy’s goals.
“I urge all participants to form strategic partnerships to foster the production of high-quality, competitive raw materials and products, thereby improving Nigeria’s position on the Global Competitiveness Index,” Asanye said.
The conference aimed to address key issues crucial for the successful execution of the National Strategy. It saw participation from various sectors, including Ministries, Departments & Agencies (MDAs), the Organized Private Sector (OPS), academia, development partners, civil society organizations, and the media.
“The outcomes of this conference are poised to make a substantial impact on Nigeria’s economic development and global competitiveness, aligning with the 8-Priority Areas of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration.”
