ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – The Standards Organisation of Nigeria has awarded Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme certificates to 62 companies in Lagos, reinforcing its dedication to improving product quality, advancing industrial growth, and safeguarding consumers nationwide.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Director-General of SON, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, emphasised that industrialisation remains vital to Nigeria’s economic development, highlighting the significant role played by small businesses.
“Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises account for over 96 per cent of businesses and contribute significantly to employment and national GDP,” he said.
“Strengthening standards and ensuring product quality remain key to enhancing the competitiveness of locally manufactured goods.”
Okeke explained that SON continues to assist manufacturers through its MSME Desk, which supports businesses with product registration and compliance with both national and international standards.
READ ALSO: WAEC Unveils Digital Platform To Issue Certificates
He also pointed to recent government-backed incentives under the “Nigeria First Policy”, such as subsidised certification, reduced laboratory testing fees, and other initiatives designed to boost local production.
He added that the MANCAP scheme is structured to ensure that all locally manufactured goods comply with Nigerian Industrial Standards before entering the market or being exported.
“MANCAP certification ensures that products meet required standards before they reach consumers,” he said. “Certified companies will continue to undergo periodic inspections and testing to ensure sustained compliance. Failure to meet standards may result in suspension or withdrawal of certification.”
Also speaking at the event, the Lagos II State Coordinator of SON, Mrs Maryrose Ugwueche, described the certification exercise as a recognition of excellence and adherence to best practices.
“This is a celebration of excellence, innovation, and dedication to quality production,” she said, while praising the awardees for upholding high manufacturing standards.
Ugwueche encouraged other manufacturers to follow the example of the certified firms, noting that compliance extends beyond recognition:
READ ALSO: Verify Candidates’ Certificates Before 2027 Elections – Obi Tells INEC
“The MANCAP initiative is not only about recognition but also about accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement across industries.
“We urge recipients to see this certification as a responsibility to sustain quality and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
The event brought together industry stakeholders, manufacturers, and SON officials, all of whom stressed the importance of standardisation in strengthening consumer confidence and enhancing the global competitiveness of Nigerian-made products.
SON reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing compliance while urging manufacturers, importers, and exporters to make use of its services to improve operations and expand market access.
The ceremony ended with the formal presentation of certificates to the 62 qualifying companies, marking another milestone in SON’s ongoing efforts to enhance product standards and drive industrial development in Nigeria.