The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have issued a strong warning to manufacturers and suppliers in Ebonyi State to desist from distributing substandard products in the market.
During a one-day stakeholders’ workshop in Abakaliki titled “Growing Businesses Through Standardisation,” SON’s Director General, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, emphasized the harmful effects of substandard goods on economic development. Represented by Mrs. Talatu Ethan, Director of Corporate Affairs at SON, he explained that the workshop aimed to boost stakeholders’ knowledge and encourage collaboration in promoting standardisation to drive business growth.
Dr. Okeke stressed that compliance with product standards is critical for national industrial and economic development.
“Reputation matters in today’s economy. Consumers are not only concerned about what is produced but also how it is produced,” he stated.
He added that products must meet quality benchmarks to be accepted in both local and international markets. These standards, he said, are not designed to frustrate producers but to help them compete effectively.
“When one manufacturer introduces fake or low-quality goods, it damages the trust and credibility of legitimate producers. SON is fully committed to eliminating substandard goods, but we cannot do it alone. We need partnership and support from producers and suppliers,” he urged.
“Standards serve as foundations for business sustainability. They enhance competitiveness, safeguard investments, and transform effort into lasting success,” he added.
Mr. Emeka Orajaka, NAFDAC Coordinator in Ebonyi, also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to eradicating fake and inferior products. He expressed readiness to collaborate with SON in enforcing standards and called on all producers to obtain proper certifications before releasing products to the market.
A guest speaker, Mr. Lawal Ayanda, highlighted the importance of standardisation in business growth. Speaking on the theme of the workshop, he particularly praised Nigerian-made cables and wires, describing them as top-quality and fire-resistant.
“Made-in-Nigeria cables are flame-retardant and reliable. Every certified product carries the SON mark,” Ayanda explained.
Mrs. Maryrose Ugwuche, SON’s Ebonyi State Coordinator, appreciated the stakeholders for their continuous support and urged them to maintain the momentum in promoting standard-compliant products.
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