The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) Inspectorate and Compliance Directorate has hosted a one-day sensitisation workshop in Nnewi, Anambra State, aimed at equipping traders and other stakeholders with information on SON requirements and compliance monitoring tactics to mitigate the influx and sale of substandard products in the country.
The workshop, themed “SON Requirements and Compliance Monitoring Activities,” attracted a diverse array of participants, including industry leaders, business professionals, and representatives from various sectors.
In his opening remarks, the Director General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, emphasised the importance of the workshop’s timing, aligning it with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s efforts to revitalise Nigeria’s economy.
Represented by the Director of the Public Relations Department, Mrs. Folusho Bolaji, Dr. Okeke highlighted that the ongoing nationwide stakeholder sensitisation programs aim not only to clarify the provisions of the SON Act No. 14 of 2015 but also to strengthen stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
“The positive impact of sensitisation exercises cannot be overstated. This forum challenges all stakeholders in Anambra State and beyond to adhere to proper processes for mutual business growth and public safety, fostering synergy between parties to achieve common objectives.
The SON Act, enacted by the Seventh National Assembly, serves as a vital framework that empowers the organisation to eliminate substandard products from the Nigerian market and enhance quality assurance.
“We urge everyone to participate in maintaining high standards and ensuring strict adherence to quality assurance, which is essential for sustainable business growth,” he said.
He said Standardisation supports the development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), promotes the agro-allied sector, protects lives and property, and drives industrial and economic advancement.
“This engagement provides an invaluable opportunity for participants to collaborate in raising awareness within the African common market, promoting economic and trade development, while combating substandard goods.
“The recent surge in seizures of counterfeit goods is alarming, with confiscations worth billions of naira representing a substantial loss not only for offenders but for the Nigerian economy at large.
“SON also prosecutes those linked to counterfeit goods in federal courts as mandated by the SON Act. While these challenges are unfortunate, we remain steadfast in our fight against counterfeiters, employing enhanced monitoring and enforcement strategies to track down economic saboteurs.
“As a premier provider of ISO Management Systems training, SON continuously updates its programs to reflect the latest international standards. We encourage businesses to certify their products with SON to enhance global acceptance of Nigerian goods and services, fostering growth and attracting investment akin to successful economies in Asia.
He added: “Our commitment lies in assuring consumers of the quality and safety of both locally made and imported goods. All regulated products must undergo our certification process to comply with national and international standards. Exporters are also encouraged to standardize their products for smoother trade.
He explained that every product manufactured in Nigeria is required to have certification under the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) through the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) for local products and the SON Offshore Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP) for imports.
“This certification is vital for competitive product positioning. We have introduced the Products Authentication Mark (PAM)—a sticker on products offering double assurance of quality.
“SON collaborates with internationally accredited firms skilled in quality assurance to support compliance with the SON Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP). Importers and exporters must adhere to SON’s guidelines to facilitate seamless clearance at Nigerian seaports, preventing the entry of counterfeit and uncertified products.
“For agricultural and other exports, SON operates internationally accredited laboratories and metrology services. We are expanding standardisation activities nationwide, employing mobile calibration vans for product testing in suburban and rural communities. Stakeholders should capitalize on these provisions to enhance the acceptance of certified Nigerian products both locally and globally.
“SON is dedicated to developing standards for products and services while ensuring compliance through conformity assessment benchmarking, providing a level playing field for all. Therefore, operators must meet consumers’ expectations.
“We invite collaboration with SON in combating the influx of substandard products to foster a healthy, prosperous nation.”
The Director of the Inspectorate and Compliance Directorate, Mr. Pious Manji, delivered a lecture entitled “Compliance Procedures,” stressing that the program is designed to protect the interests of legitimate businesses and consumers alike.
Mr. Manji underscored that the fight against substandard products is a collective effort, requiring vigilance akin to crime-fighting.
During the event, Mr. Augustine Jideofor, President of the Automobile Manufacturers and Importers Association in Nnewi, expressed gratitude for the workshop, highlighting the need for continuous engagement between SON and the business community.
“This interaction with SON is vital for us to express our concerns and build a partnership in progress,”Mr. Jideofor stated, acknowledging the contributions of local businesses to SON’s revenue through registration and compliance initiatives.
Participant Mr. Chinedu Ani remarked on the workshop’s significance in addressing irregularities and counterfeit products in the market, echoing sentiments of appreciation from attendees such as Mr. David Ugwuezumba and representatives from FidelBen Autor Spare Parts.
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