By Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has teamed up with market leaders, traders, and importers represented by the Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA) to address the growing issue of substandard and counterfeit goods in the region.
During a public stakeholders’ sensitisation event held in Onitsha, Anambra State, the Director General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, represented by Mrs. Folusho Bolaji, Director of the Public Relations Department, emphasised the initiative’s dual purpose: educating stakeholders about the provisions of the SON Act No. 14 of 2015 and enhancing collaborative efforts within the community.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Okeke stated, “Our presence here today, in Onitsha—one of Nigeria’s most vibrant commercial hubs—underscores the theme of this sensitization: ‘SON Requirements and Compliance Monitoring Activities to Curb Influx and Sale of Substandard Products in Nigeria.’ Our primary goal is to raise awareness not only regarding SON’s activities but also to foster productive partnerships among stakeholders, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s initiatives to revitalize the economy.”
He highlighted SON’s commitment to eradicating substandard products while improving the overall quality of life through standardization and quality assurance.
“We urge everyone to join us in upholding the highest standards and ensuring strict compliance with quality assurance protocols crucial for sustainable business growth,” he said.
Dr. Okeke further noted the importance of standardisation for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), stating that these entities are vital for the nation’s industrial and economic advancements.
“Our gathering today serves to encourage stakeholders in Onitsha to adhere to established protocols for the benefit of all, particularly for consumer safety.
“The SON is dedicated to ensuring the safety and quality of both domestically produced and imported products, while also safeguarding manufacturers and importers through significant investments in quality infrastructure,” he continued.
“We rigorously monitor all regulated products to ensure compliance with both national and international standards.”
Dr. Okeke outlined the certification requirements for products made in Nigeria, which must be certified under the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) through SON’s Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) for local goods and the SON Offshore Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP) for imports.
The newly introduced Product Authentication Mark (PAM) also provides an additional layer of assurance regarding product quality. He stressed that certification is essential for both product competitiveness and consumer safety.
“SON remains a leading provider of ISO Management Systems training, continuously updating programs to align with global best practices,” he noted.
“We encourage operators to certify their products through SON to enhance the global competitiveness of Nigerian-made goods and services. By adhering to these standards, we can promote local brands, attract investments, and emulate the successes seen in other economies.”
The Director of Inspectorate and Compliance at SON, Mr. Pious Manji, expressed concern over the recent surge in counterfeit product seizures, remarking that the billion-naira value of confiscated goods represents a significant loss to the Nigerian economy and its fabric.
“We are empowered by the SON Act to prosecute those involved in the distribution of counterfeit goods through federal courts,” he said.
“We are unwavering in our mission to combat counterfeiting and protect the economy, regardless of the individuals, sectors, or regions involved. With enhanced monitoring and enforcement, we are better equipped to track and prosecute these economic saboteurs.”
Manji urged manufacturers, traders, and consumers to access SON offices for support, clarification, or to lodge complaints, as certain intermediaries sometimes misrepresent registration fees and processes.
In a show of appreciation, ASMATA President Chief Humphrey Anuna thanked SON for the sensitization program, pledging to ensure compliance among traders, importers, and manufacturers in Anambra. He noted that Governor Chukwuma Soludo is committed to maintaining due process and fostering a healthy, livable, and prosperous environment for both Anambra State and Nigeria.
“Henceforth, there is zero tolerance for fake or substandard products in Anambra markets. ASMATA will collaborate with SON to ensure compliance, prioritizing the health and safety of citizens as well as the growth of local businesses and the Nigerian economy,” Anuna declared.
The event concluded with the presentation of the SON Constructional Act booklet to ASMATA, aimed at improving accessibility and awareness among Anambra traders.
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