The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) have brought together stakeholders in the rubber sector to proffer way to effectively utilize the produce.
Speaking, the National President National Rubber Producers Processor Marketers Association of Nigeria (NARPPMAN), Wednesday, in Abuja, Prince Igbinosun Peter Idowu the non-utilisation of the rubber industry despite its abundant availability.
“So you can see that what has been happening to the rubber industry in Nigeria is very unfortunate. Today, we have just seen presentation by RRIN, that we have 56 rubber factories in Nigeria. Out of the 56, only 11 are functional and out of the 11, only 1 is producing above 50% installation capacity. For me, that’s a sign of a commodity that needs serious attention,” Idowu added.
He urged the federal government to develop the raw material base to move the rubber industry forward, going back to the plantation.
Executive Director Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria Dr. Lelia Dongo said the need to gather stakeholders was paramount noting that the meeting will help reposition the commodity and improve on the value chain.
According to the Director General RMRDC, Professor Hussain Doko Ibrahim said the one day stakeholders summit with the theme: sustainable development of natural rubber for the Industrialisation of Nigeria’, would help revamp the economy if properly invested in.
“The forum is to chart a road map for revamping rubber production, development, utilization and export in Nigeria.”
