Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has commenced a stakeholder engagement towards the Africa Raw Materials Summit scheduled for May 20 to 22, 2025.
The RMRDC delegation for stakeholder engagement led by the director general, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, visited Lagos to meet key players in the manufacturing sector and raise awareness on the significance of the summit.
According to Prof. Ike-Muonso, major government organisations such as the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investments, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, among others are also involved in ensuring the success of events.
The summit consultant and chairman of the local organising committee, Prof. Benard Odoh, emphasised the strategic importance of the summit for the continent.
He said, “This summit is a golden opportunity for industry stakeholders to shape policies, form partnerships and drive the growth of Africa’s raw materials sector.”
He explained that over 70 countries were preparing to attend the summit which is a huge opportunity for companies to meet with strategic partners and build strong capacity. He urged stakeholders to seize the moment and actively participate.
During the sensitisation tour, the team visited prominent industrial firms including Landcraft Industries Limited, Sunflag Group, Top Steel Nigeria and MATACO Group—each a vital contributor in sectors ranging from steel production to footwear manufacturing. The visits aimed to foster collaboration and underscore the summit’s goal of promoting local raw material sourcing and value addition to our abundant resources.
The general manager of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr Femi Gbadegun, who was also part of the team, informed all industry players to leverage on the rare opportunity to participate in the summit because of its numerous advantages.
Stakeholders expressed enthusiasm for the summit, pledging their support and participation. They also called on RMRDC to advocate for government policies that are more favourable to local manufacturers, particularly in areas like tariffs, infrastructure, import substitution, etc.
