ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Standards Organisation of Nigeria has called on local manufacturers to focus on producing standardised goods to boost quality, build consumer confidence, and enhance global competitiveness.
The appeal was made by the Director-General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, at the product listing ceremony of Green Conversion and Assembly Limited (G-CAL) held in Ilorin on Tuesday.
Represented by the Kwara State Coordinator, Alhaji Oyepo AbdulRazaq, Okeke stressed that certified products offer value for money and are capable of competing internationally.
“Nigerian manufacturers should keep striving to meet the minimum required standards. Producing quality and standardised products encourages Nigerians to patronise and take pride in Made-in-Nigeria goods,” the director general urged.
READ ALSO:El-Rufai’s Son Bashir Apologises To Shettima Over ‘Spineless’ Comment
Okeke disclosed that G-CAL is the first company of its kind in Kwara State and presented it with a product listing certificate, while urging adherence to the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) to sustain certification.
He further explained that product identification systems, including barcodes or numbering, aid in tracking goods, confirming authenticity, and enabling recalls when necessary.
Also speaking at the event, Assistant Chief Technical Officer of SON, Mrs. Ibukunolu Alasan, said: “There is still more work to be done. The products need to be certified with MANCAP to be properly identified in town. Quality has beginnings, but without ends.”
She added that four products would be certified, each assigned a unique number valid for one year and renewable thereafter.
The Manager of Kiowope Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Bello Kamaldeen, noted that the company’s products are gaining wider acceptance and are now being exported to other states.
“We have delivered about 10 buses to the University of Lagos, and many commercial motorists are converting their petrol-powered tricycles to electric ones,” he said.
He also commended SON for its regulatory oversight and pledged continued compliance with standards.
Products listed and certified at the event included Kiowope, Buffalo, Buffalo X, and ASABI, spanning electrical and mechanical categories.
NAN