…He Championed Nigeria’s Industrial Growth – RMRDC DG

…Partners NASS on groundbreaking legislation 

By Emmanuel Elebeke

Yesterday, distinguished Nigerians converged at the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) to pay tribute to Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the council’s pioneering Governing Board Chairman, who passed away at 82.

The event was a memorable celebration of his remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s progress.

In his welcome address, RMRDC’s Director General/CEO, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, highlighted Iwuanyanwu’s foresight in promoting strategies and policies that guided the development and utilization of Nigeria’s industrial raw materials, laying the foundation for Nigeria’s industrial growth and self-reliance.

“We gather today with heavy hearts yet grateful spirits to honour and celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of a true visionary, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

“In 1988, when the Raw Materials Research and Development Council took its first steps at 28 Berkeley Street, Lagos, Chief Iwuanyanwu, our pioneer Board Chairman, alongside the then Director General, Prof. Mrs. Oluremi Aribisala, sculpted the Council’s vision and mission with unwavering dedication. “His foresight in promoting strategies and policies to guide the development and utilization of Nigeria’s industrial raw materials laid the foundation for our country’s industrial growth and self-reliance.

“Chief Iwuanyanwu’s tireless efforts, alongside his distinguished Board members, to reduce import dependency and conserve foreign exchange have left an indelible mark on our nation’s economic landscape. 

“His vision continues to guide us, even as we stand at the threshold of a new era in raw materials management.”

Inspired by his pioneering spirit, Ikemuonso said the Council now collaborates with the National Assembly on groundbreaking legislation. 

He said the draft bill aims to revolutionize RMRDC’s approach to raw materials, mandating a minimum of 30% local processing before any export.

“This initiative honours Chief Iwuanyanwu’s legacy and aligns perfectly with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, promising to boost value addition, create jobs, and strengthen our economy.

“Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu wore many hats with distinction – a renowned Engineer, a visionary Industrialist, a compassionate Humanist, a generous Philanthropist, a principled Politician, and a respected Statesman.

“He was a true Nigerian hero. Today, we mourn his passing and celebrate his profound impact on RMRDC, on countless individuals, and our great country,” he added.

Iwuanyanwu’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to RMRDC. As a renowned statesman, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, he played a significant role in Nigeria’s political and economic landscape. Born on September 4, 1942, Iwuanyanwu was a respected leader who served as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and held various positions in politics and business.

He encouraged the bereaved family of Chief Iwuanyanwu to find solace in knowing that his legacy transcends time and will continue to inspire future generations.

“Know that his wisdom, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress will forever echo in the corridors of our institution and in the hearts of all who knew him.

“The RMRDC pledges to honour his memory by redoubling our efforts to promote local raw materials sourcing, reduce import dependency, and conserve foreign exchange. Chief Iwuanyanwu’s life reminds us that one person’s vision and dedication can indeed change a nation. Let us carry his torch high as we move forward, illuminating the path towards a more self-reliant and prosperous Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, the RMRDC DG said the agency, in collaboration with the National Assembly, is working on groundbreaking legislation to promote industrial growth. This effort to him is a testament to Iwuanyanwu’s vision and dedication to Nigeria’s progress.

In her own tribute, the pioneer Director General of the agency,  Prof. Oluremi Aribisala said Emmanuel Iwuayanwu was a Parent to Raw Materials Research and Development Council as the pioneer chairman and paid the price of self-sacrifice by investing his time, energy, intellectual, strength with no payment of naira or dollar currency, no estacode collected, no contract collected, no promises to pay, not even the use of government car, government guest house or chairman’s luxurious office. 

According to her, Chief Iwuanyanwu’s dedication to public service went beyond titles and benefits.

“The chief at any given time never travelled on RMRDC funds, nor was he interested in any contract, or use of Government vehicle, Instead each time we travelled to Owerri his late wife made us felt at home in all respects at their cost.”

She listed  Self-Sacrifice for the a greater Good; Merit-based leadership; people-oriented leadership; a true-staeman approach, innovative and leadership; visionary leadership and innovation; Mentorship and Building Future Leaders; 

Trust and Transparency as key pillars of Chief Iwuanyanwu’s legacy that have left a lasting mark in the sands of time.

The RMRDC pioneer DG said that late Chief Iwuanyanwu’s legacy challenged every Nigerian to recommit values of integrity, service, and excellence. 

“His life is a wake-up call to restore the standards of public service and leadership that our nation desperately needs. This is a call for “Legacy Rebirth”-for each of us to carry forward his core values in our own lives, organisations, and communities.

“Honouring Chief Iwuanyanwu goes beyond remembering his achievements; it means continuing his work. Together, we can restore the values that once made Nigeria a nation of promise, laying a renewed foundation for the future. Let us commit to upholding his vision of selfless leadership, merit, integrity, and trust. As we carry forward his legacy, may we each contribute to building a stronger, more united Nigeria,” she added.

Other mourners who attended the evening of tribute also described late Chief Iwuanyanwu as a distinguished statesman, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and leader whose contributions have profoundly impacted relevant fields, including Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.

They said Iwuanyanwu’s contributions to Nigeria’s industrial growth and self-reliance will be remembered for generations to come. His legacy serves as an inspiration to future leaders and entrepreneurs.

Chief Iwuanyanwu’s remarkable life and achievements will continue to inspire Nigerians, and his legacy will remain an integral part of Nigeria’s industrial growth and development.

Present  at the event were Past Members of the Governing Board of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Past and Present Directors-General, Members of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Revered Clergy, Directors and the bereaved family members of late Iwuanyanwu.