By Olajide Idowu
The Director-General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, has warned that it will no longer be business as usual for producers and importers of substandard products in the country.
Okeke gave the warning on Wednesday in Osogbo during the presentation of Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) certificates to 15 manufacturers on Wednesday in Osogbo .
He was represented at the event by the SON Southwest Director of Operations, Mr Adedayo David.
The SON boss said the organisation maintains a zero-tolerance policy for substandard products and is committed to ensuring that Made-in-Nigeria goods and services conform to relevant Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS).
He noted that product safety and quality are critical to building a viable economy, particularly through the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Okeke added that SON has, over the years, collaborated with relevant stakeholders to develop and establish standards for products and services, as well as certify them in line with both national and international requirements.
According to him, this is to ensure that locally made products can compete favourably with imported goods in both domestic and international markets.
He said that, in pursuit of its mandate, the organisation develops standards for products, processes and materials to guarantee the production of quality goods and services.
Okeke stressed that SON would continue to ensure that all locally manufactured and imported products meet the required standards.
He congratulated the awardees and urged them to sustain the quality of their products.
Also speaking, the State Coordinator of SON in Osun, Mrs Folasade Owojori, described the presentation of MANCAP certificates as a celebration of excellence, integrity and commitment to quality standards in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
Owojori explained that MANCAP is one of the organisation’s flagship initiatives designed to ensure that all locally manufactured products meet the requirements of relevant Nigerian Industrial Standards.
She said that achieving the certification demonstrates that manufacturers’ products are safe, reliable and consistently of
high quality.
According to her, this helps to build consumer confidence and contributes to national economic development.
“Standards are the backbone of industrial development.
“ They protect consumers, promote fair trade and enhance competitiveness. In a globalised economy, adherence to standards is not optional but essential for survival,” she said.
Owojori added that through MANCAP, SON continues to strengthen the quality infrastructure supporting Nigeria’s industrialisation drive and ensures that Made-in-Nigeria products can compete favourably both locally and internationally. (NAN)
Edited by Victor Adeoti