By Polycarp Ifeanyi
The Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) Anambra State Area 1 organized a one-day workshop in Awka aimed at tackling the influx of substandard products in Nigeria.
The event, themed “SON Requirements and Compliance Monitoring Activities to Curb the Influx and Sale of Substandard Products in the Country,” was held at Peackastel Royal Suites and Hotel.
Engr. Samuel Ayuba Ushe, Head of Operations at the National Metrology Institute (NMI), and Mr. Pius Manji Lawan, Director of the Inspectorate and Compliance Directorate (ICD), led key presentations.
Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, Director General of SON, stressed the importance of these sensitization programs. Represented by Mrs. Foluso Bolaji, Director of Public Relations, he highlighted the success of previous workshops. He described the SON Act No. 14 of 2015 as crucial for eliminating substandard products in Nigeria.
Dr. Okeke urged participants to adhere to standards and quality assurance, noting that standardization supports the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Scale Enterprises, promotes the agro-allied sector, and ensures the safety of lives and property, contributing to industrial and economic development.
He emphasized that SON’s updated ISO Management Systems training programs align with the latest international standards and best practices. He encouraged operators to certify their products with SON to enhance the global competitiveness of Nigerian products.
Hon. Christian Udechukwu, Anambra State Commissioner for Industry and Commerce, praised SON’s efforts, aligning them with Governor Soludo’s vision for a livable state.
He highlighted the governor’s achievements, including road construction, free antenatal care, free education, teacher and youth employment, and seedling distribution. He expressed the state government’s commitment to collaborating with SON to support local enterprises.
Mrs. Uche Emeka Ekwe from the Enugu state branch of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) underscored the collaboration between NAFDAC and SON in combating fake and substandard products.
Other stakeholders, including ACP Anita Ayo representing the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Augustine Jideofor, Chairman of the Auto Mobile Importers Association Nnewi, and Mr. Emeka Matunze, Chairman of Aluminum Manufacturers Anambra State, also delivered goodwill messages.
The workshop concluded with a question-and-answer session, providing further insights and clarifications for participants.
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