Nigeria Secures Sub-Saharan Africa Seat on Global Research Board

Nigeria has secured representation on the board of a global research organisation following the election of Professor Nnanyelugo M. Ike-Muonso, Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), as the Sub-Saharan Africa regional representative of the World Association of Industrial and Technological Research Organisations (WAITRO).

Ike-Muonso emerged winner at the WAITRO Summit held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from October 26 to 28, 2026. He contested the position alongside Professor Wellington Riach Liamba Masamba, Vice-Chancellor of the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and Professor Mohammed Aliyu Paiko, Vice-Chancellor of Abdulkadir Kure University in Nigeria.

The election gives Nigeria a platform to contribute to international discussions on scientific research, technological innovation and industrial development across Sub-Saharan Africa.

WAITRO is a global association that promotes cooperation among industrial and technological research organisations, universities, industries and other innovation stakeholders. It facilitates knowledge sharing, international partnerships and the application of research to practical development challenges.

The RMRDC said Ike-Muonso’s election would provide opportunities to promote African research priorities, strengthen international collaboration and advance the commercialisation of research findings.

The development also aligns with the council’s efforts to encourage research-driven industrialisation, develop Nigeria’s indigenous raw materials and support local manufacturing through technology and innovation.

Under Ike-Muonso’s leadership, the RMRDC has pursued partnerships intended to bridge the gap between research institutions and industry, helping translate scientific findings into products and processes that can support economic growth.

His new role is expected to provide a broader platform for collaboration between African research institutions and international partners, including opportunities for technology transfer and the exchange of expertise.

The election comes as Nigeria continues to seek ways to increase local value addition, reduce reliance on imported industrial inputs and strengthen the contribution of science and technology to economic development.

The WAITRO Board provides strategic direction for the association and supports cooperation among member organisations worldwide. Ike-Muonso’s appointment is therefore expected to expand Nigeria’s participation in the international research and innovation community.