Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) Honours 18 Firms, Certifies 59 Brands at Nnewi Ceremony,

 

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has reaffirmed its commitment to quality assurance and industrial development by awarding 18 companies and recognizing 59 certified product brands during a ceremony held at its Anambra State Office II in Nnewi.

Held on Wednesday, the event was a significant milestone not only for the recipients but also for the SON office, which celebrated its third year of operations in the state. The brief but impactful gathering brought together manufacturers, stakeholders, and SON officials, all of whom shared a common vision — elevating product standards and promoting Nigerian industries to meet and surpass global benchmarks.

The companies awarded had successfully undergone the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP), which certifies that locally produced goods comply with Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS). Some of them were receiving recertifications, reflecting their continued dedication to maintaining high-quality production processes.

Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of SON, through his representative Mr. Agaife Gabriel, Director of the Anambra Region, applauded the achievements of the awardees. He noted that the certificates presented were more than official endorsements — they symbolized resilience, adherence to regulatory expectations, and a shared commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability.

He stressed that Nigerian manufacturers, through discipline and strategic support, could produce goods that not only serve local markets but also thrive internationally. “The companies we are celebrating today have demonstrated that with the right mix of innovation, dedication, and support, Nigerian industries can match and even exceed global expectations,” Mr. Gabriel declared.

Beyond the formal presentations, the event featured an exhibition that spotlighted various certified products and innovations. It served as both a showcase and a motivational tool for businesses still striving to attain similar recognition. Attendees explored displays that underscored the evolution and potential of local manufacturing.

SON used the platform to urge continuous improvement, reminding participants that standards are not static but ever-evolving to keep pace with technological developments and changing consumer preferences. “This is not a destination but a journey that requires a continuous commitment to excellence,” the DG emphasized through his representative.

The message was clear: achieving MANCAP is not a one-time feat but an ongoing obligation for any company aiming to remain competitive and relevant in today's dynamic industrial landscape. Dr. Okeke called on manufacturers not yet certified to seize the opportunity and align with national standards to open new market doors and fortify business sustainability.

SON’s mission, he reiterated, revolves around strengthening industrial development and safeguarding consumer trust by ensuring product reliability and safety. Through standardization, Nigerian-made products can hold their own on global shelves, enhancing economic resilience and industrial credibility.

The occasion also marked a celebration of SON Anambra State Office II, Nnewi, which has reached its three-year milestone since its establishment in February 2022. This celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the office’s impact and achievements under the leadership of Mr. Michael Ogbuji Chukwudi, the pioneer State Coordinator.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Mr. Chukwudi recounted the office’s journey from its inception to its current status. He praised the national leadership of SON, particularly the DG, Dr. Okeke, for his unwavering support, resource allocation, and clear directives that have enabled the office to thrive.

He stated, “I am deeply grateful to Almighty God and the management of SON for the opportunity to lead this office from its beginning. Being here today, not just as the Coordinator but also as the Chief Host of this milestone event, is a humbling and fulfilling experience.”

Under his watch, the office has recorded tangible achievements. These include the certification of 51 companies across 141 product brands, revalidation of 97 companies’ products, and discovery of 23 new firms in the region. Moreover, 20 new product types were brought to light, and 205 product registration certificates were granted to importers operating within the state.

These figures speak volumes about the dedication of the Nnewi office in pushing for compliance, ensuring quality control, and fostering industrial participation in standardization processes. Mr. Chukwudi commended the cordial relationships built over time with various SON directorates and stakeholders, crediting these partnerships for the office’s sustained success.

Throughout the event, a recurring theme was the indispensable role of standards in building a strong and sustainable economy. SON officials reiterated that standards form the bedrock of industrialization, economic development, and consumer protection. Without them, consistent quality, safety, and competitiveness would remain elusive.

The awards ceremony and accompanying exhibition sent a powerful message to Nigerian manufacturers: the journey to excellence may be rigorous, but it is achievable and rewarding. SON pledged continued technical support, guidance, and capacity-building opportunities for all enterprises willing to embrace its vision.

As the curtain fell on the ceremony, the mood was celebratory yet purposeful. It was a reminder that even as SON honors the successes of today, the work of shaping a future defined by quality, innovation, and global competitiveness must continue with renewed vigor.