Image of Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso

Nigeria has secured a seat on the Board of the World Association of Industrial and Technological Research Organisations (WAITRO) following the election of Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso as Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Representative.

Ike-Muonso, Director-General of Nigeria’s Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), won the regional election at the WAITRO Summit in Istanbul, Türkiye, held from October 26 to 28, 2026.

He defeated two other candidates: Prof. Wellington Riach Liamba Masamba, Vice-Chancellor of Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and Prof. Mohammed Aliyu Paiko, Vice-Chancellor of Abdulkadir Kure University in Nigeria.

His election gives Nigeria a platform to contribute to international discussions on scientific research, technology transfer and industrial development, while advancing research priorities across Sub-Saharan Africa.

The appointment comes as Nigeria seeks to strengthen the link between scientific research and industrial production, particularly through the development and commercialisation of locally available raw materials.

Under Ike-Muonso’s leadership, the RMRDC has intensified efforts to promote indigenous raw materials, encourage local processing and support the conversion of research findings into commercially viable products.

These priorities reflect a broader challenge facing many African economies: translating scientific knowledge and natural resource wealth into competitive industries, manufacturing capacity and employment opportunities.

His new position is expected to provide opportunities for advancing these objectives through international partnerships, knowledge exchange and technology transfer.

For Sub-Saharan Africa, the appointment offers an opportunity to increase the region’s visibility in international research and innovation networks.

Stronger institutional collaboration could help African countries access scientific expertise, develop indigenous technologies and improve the application of research to local industrial needs.

In a statement issued by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs Nnamdi-Anum, the RMRDC described the election as a significant milestone for Nigeria and the council, highlighting its potential to advance African research priorities and strengthen international partnerships.

The WAITRO Summit 2026 brought together representatives of research organisations, universities, industries, policymakers and innovation partners from around the world to discuss scientific cooperation, technological advancement and sustainable development.

The effectiveness of Nigeria’s new representation will ultimately depend on its ability to translate international engagement into practical research partnerships, technology development and industrial opportunities across the region.

Article by Jed Mwangi

photo courtesy :Google

https://guardian.ng/appointments/rmrdc-dg-ike-muonso-clinches-waitro-board-seat