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From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has launched a second-generation digital platform aimed at boosting transparency, attracting both local and foreign investment, and curbing illegal mining activities in Nigeria’s raw materials sector.
Speaking at the unveiling in Abuja on Tuesday, the Director-General of RMRDC, Nnanyelugo Ike-Mounso, said the platform would provide critical data to investors while strengthening oversight in the sector.
He explained that the initiative would also support efforts to curb illicit financial flows, particularly when combined with the proposed policy mandating at least 30 percent value addition to raw materials before export.
“This database will disclose locations of minerals so investors and regulators know exactly where resources are. It also strengthens the capacity of authorities to monitor and check illegal mining activities,” Ike-Mounso said.
According to him, lack of reliable data has long discouraged investors. He stressed that no serious investment can thrive without credible information, noting that the new platform would eliminate “blind investment” by providing comprehensive insights into Nigeria’s raw materials landscape.
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“You can’t invest blindly. This platform provides the data needed to drive informed investment decisions, improve foreign direct investment, and enhance overall investor confidence in the country,” he added.
On tackling illicit financial flows, Ike-Mounso said enforcing value addition locally would make it easier to track raw materials and ensure compliance with regulations.
He also noted alignment with policies from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, which already mandates a level of local processing before export.
Explaining the evolution of the initiative, the DG said the first system Raw Material Management Information System—was based on a nationwide survey of resources and investment conditions but had limitations.
The new platform, known as the Nigerian Statistical Information System for Products and Raw Materials, is designed to integrate with multiple databases, offering more robust, real-time data for policymakers and investors.
In her welcome address, Director of Corporate Affairs at RMRDC, Chinyete Nnamsi-Anum, highlighted the agency’s recent strides, noting that under the current leadership, the council has undergone strategic repositioning and introduced impactful reforms to drive Nigeria’s industrial development through better utilisation of local raw materials.
