The minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji said there are plans by the federal government to create an innovation fund for research and development in the country.
The minister stated this while briefing journalists after his inspection tour of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) office in Lagos.
He said, the R&D Fund aimed to support experts and individuals excelling in technology to advance their research, is a crucial element for development.
The minister added that, ‘the funds are for Centres like RMRDC as this will enable them to develop most of these researches for the nation’s development.
He tasked the Raw Materials Research and Development Council on creating more outcomes and products from its research and innovative activities, adding that, “RMRDC is one of the most important research centers we have in Nigeria. If we anchor on what we can find in raw material, we can be sure that Nigeria will move miles ahead.”
He expressed delight over the array of pilot plants established by the council to demonstrate the conversion and commercial viability of Research and Development (R&D) outcomes into industrial inputs and products.
He stressed, these are testament to the council’s commitment to expanding the frontiers of research, development, and innovation in Nigeria in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Nnaji pointed out that, “an investor from Canada will be setting up a floating glass factory in the country, after seeing that the country is rich in Caustic soda acts and this is an important element of making glass.
“With Nigeria having Caustic soda acts material and the machine that can convert limestone to caustic soda and to precipitate the calcium carbonate, the investor has signed an agreement to set up a float glass factory here in Nigeria.”
He noted that, “with this kind of factory, we may not need to import glasses and Nigeria will be saving foreign exchange, which will reduce the pressure on our naira.”
The Minister assured the Council of the Ministry’s support and cooperation in advancing its noble mission, saying that “we look forward to working closely with you to ensure Nigeria becomes a hub of innovation and a leader in raw materials development in Africa and globally.”
On his part, the director of Industrial Plant, Equipment Design and Development, Emmanuel Kwaya said the council has assiduously worked over the years with stakeholders to increase manufacturers’ access to both basic and secondary raw materials.
He said, the ministry has been able to attract a glass manufacturing company to invest in Nigeria, saying that the country has all the raw materials for glassmaking.
He also said the council needs to be well funded as the Minister has said to be able to carry out all the research activities, develop projects, innovations, among others.
