ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Standards Organisation of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s trade competitiveness and promoting the export of locally made products through its flagship certification scheme, SONEXCAP.
The Director-General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, stated this during the 2025 World Standards Day celebration in Lagos.
He urged exporters and manufacturers to leverage the certification programme to access markets across Africa and beyond, stressing that SONEXCAP addresses key challenges faced by exporters.
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According to him, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Export Certification Programme was created to ensure that Nigerian-made goods meet international quality benchmarks.
“The scheme ensures that Nigerian products, once certified, are accepted across African markets, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.
‘SONEXCAP is not just a certification initiative; it is our gateway to expanding Nigeria’s export frontiers. It builds confidence in Nigerian-made products and opens doors to regional and global markets,’” Okeke explained.
He underscored the importance of standards in facilitating trade, ensuring product credibility, and securing international acceptance for Nigerian exports.
Okeke encouraged exporters to utilise the certification scheme to reach friendlier import destinations, create jobs, and contribute to national growth.
He added that standards serve as the universal language of trade, connecting nations seamlessly.
Highlighting this year’s theme, ‘Shared Vision for a Better World: Spotlight on Sustainable Development Goal 17,’ Okeke emphasised the need for collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, academia, and civil society to advance Nigeria’s industrial and trade agenda.
“Our national goals in food security, industrialisation, energy transition, and export expansion depend on a strong national quality infrastructure,” he said.
He further explained that conformity assessment relies on collaboration and mutual trust among stakeholders to ensure adherence to standards, especially for imported goods.
Okeke also revealed that SON is deepening its partnership with international organisations to improve product testing and certification capacity, thereby protecting consumers and boosting local industry confidence.
In addition to helping exporters meet global requirements, SONEXCAP supports small and medium enterprises by simplifying certification procedures and improving product credibility.
He urged Nigerian manufacturers to adopt SONEXCAP as a strategic tool for competitiveness and growth, assuring that SON remains dedicated to providing the necessary technical support.
“When Nigerian products carry the SON mark of quality, it tells the world we are ready,” he said.
“SONEXCAP is our statement of confidence in the excellence and potential of the Nigerian industry,” he added.
As Nigeria pushes forward with its economic diversification drive, Okeke affirmed that SONEXCAP remains a vital step toward positioning the nation as a dominant force within Africa’s single market.
The Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, commended SON under Okeke’s leadership for its proactive collaboration with the manufacturing sector.
Ajayi-Kadir, represented by Mr. Joseph Imoleke, described Okeke as a leader with “a listening ear” who actively engages stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s trade ecosystem.