…RMRDC unveils legislative bill on raw materials value-addition
The optimal value of production and utilisation of colours has driven the convergence of exhibitors from over 12 countries at the maiden edition of the West Africa Coatings Show, organised by the Paints Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMA) in partnership with DMG Events.
The three-day event, held from July 2 to 4 in Lagos, brought together key players from the chemicals and paints manufacturing sectors to drive innovations in West Africa’s emerging markets.
In his welcome speech, PMA Chairman Mr A.S. Babatunde noted that multinational companies are turning to emerging markets such as West Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and South Africa. He described Nigeria and Ghana as major hubs experiencing significant economic growth despite challenges.
He emphasised that the show would create rewarding experiences for exhibitors and visitors while opening up business opportunities for raw material suppliers, machinery and laboratory equipment distributors, stakeholders, and paint manufacturers in the region.
Also speaking, DMG Events Associate Vice President Paddy O’Neill described the coatings show as the only dedicated trade event for the coatings community in West Africa. He revealed that 110 exhibitors from 12 countries, including Nigeria, China, Canada, Egypt, India, Italy, Libya, South Korea, Turkey, UAE, and the US, are participating, signalling international interest in Nigeria and the West African market.
In his goodwill message, the Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, disclosed that the council is upscaling pilot projects on resin production using indigenous feedstocks. He added that RMRDC has sponsored a landmark legislative bill on raw materials value-addition, which seeks to ensure local processing of raw materials by at least 30% before export.
The bill has advanced beyond the Senate public hearing stage.
The Director-General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, praised the event for fostering innovation and noted SON’s collaboration with PMA to implement critical standards such as the 90ppm lead limit in paints to protect human health and the environment. He reaffirmed SON’s commitment to helping manufacturers achieve global competitiveness through adherence to international best practices.
Also, the Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadiri, mni, commended the organisers and urged manufacturers to explore environmental trends, interact meaningfully, and build strong alliances to transform their businesses for the next decade.
