The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has said it will launch a comprehensive Nigeria's raw materials database this month, to bolster the country's industrial competitiveness.

The database would also provide crucial information to investors and manufacturers globally.

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, said this during his 100 days in office celebration on Tuesday in Abuja.

"The database for raw materials that we're compiling doesn't exist anywhere in Nigeria, as it is today. We are providing both technical and investment information, and you can quote me anywhere. This is not just point data; we're providing robust, well-specified information on each raw material, including its economic value," Ike-Muonso said.

The database is also expected to serve as a vital tool for investors, offering detailed insights into the availability, exploitation potential, and economic value of various raw materials across Nigeria, he added.

He stated, "We have solids, agricultural, and mineral raw materials included."

He added: "We're even determining the extent of exploitation of each raw material in every location, along with associated risks and tax policies to guide investment."

He said that the initiative aligns with the council's broader strategy to shift its research focus towards industrial relevance and commercialization.

He also called for research that directly feeds into the needs of the industrial sector.

He said that the council's ambitious target is to secure at least 200 patents within 24 months.

He said, "The way you can feed into that is to ensure you have research that is easily commercializable. We want research that the industries can accept and that will contribute to industrial competitiveness."