TINUBU’S INDUSTRIALISATION AGENDA: RMRDC URGES RESEARCH-DRIVEN JOB CREATION

The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has called for greater investment in research and innovation to support President Bola Tinubu’s industrialisation agenda and create more jobs for Nigerians.

The council believes that using research to develop local raw materials and strengthen industries could help Nigeria grow its economy, reduce dependence on imported products and create more employment opportunities for young people.

Industrialisation involves developing industries that turn raw materials into finished or semi-finished products. For Nigeria, this means moving beyond exporting raw materials and producing more goods locally, from agricultural products to manufactured items used by households and businesses.

The RMRDC plays a role in promoting the development and use of Nigeria’s natural and industrial raw materials. Its work focuses on helping businesses identify local resources that can be processed and used to support manufacturing and other economic activities.

By connecting research institutions with manufacturers and entrepreneurs, the council hopes to encourage more businesses to adopt locally developed technologies, improve production methods and create products that can compete in domestic and international markets.

For example, Nigeria has substantial agricultural resources that can support industries involved in food processing, textiles, cosmetics and other consumer goods. Developing these resources locally could create opportunities for farmers, processors, transport operators and factory workers.

Research driven industrialisation could also help small and medium-sized businesses improve product quality, reduce production costs and develop new products. However, these benefits depend on whether research findings are translated into practical solutions that businesses can afford to adopt.

Job creation remains a major concern for Nigerians, particularly young people seeking stable employment and opportunities to build sustainable careers. Expanding local manufacturing could create jobs across different skill levels, from technical and engineering roles to logistics, sales and administration.

However, turning research into employment requires more than good ideas. Businesses need access to affordable financing, reliable electricity, suitable infrastructure and policies that encourage investment in local production. Stronger partnerships between universities, research centres, government agencies and private companies would also be important.

The RMRDC’s call highlights the need to make research a practical tool for economic growth rather than allowing valuable discoveries to remain unused in laboratories and academic publications.

If supported by effective policies and sustained investment, research-driven industrialisation could help Nigeria strengthen local industries, create jobs and make better use of its abundant raw materials.

Ultimately, the success of the industrialisation agenda will depend on how effectively the country turns its resources, knowledge and innovation into products, businesses and meaningful employment for Nigerians.