Standards Organisation of Nigeria - SON

SON PARTNERS WITH NADDC TO PROMOTE QUALITY ASSURANCE IN NIGERIA’S AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has strengthened its collaboration with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) through participation in the “Automotive Hour 2026” documentary project, aimed at promoting quality assurance within Nigeria’s automotive sector.

The engagement, which took place on May 5, 2026, at the SON Ogba Laboratory Complex in Lagos, underscores a shared commitment to advancing standardization, industrial growth, and consumer protection in the nation’s automotive ecosystem.

The initiative seeks to showcase the contributions of indigenous vehicle assemblers and manufacturers to Nigeria’s industrial development, while also highlighting investment opportunities and addressing critical challenges within the sector. It further promotes sustainable national development through the strengthening of a robust and competitive automotive industry.

The Director General/Chief Executive, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, who was represented by the Deputy Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Engr. Omoniyi Olalekan, reiterated SON’s mandate in ensuring compliance with mandatory automotive standards for all vehicles imported into the country.

He emphasized that effective regulatory frameworks remain essential for safeguarding consumers and enhancing the quality, safety, and reliability of both locally manufactured and assembled vehicles. The SON Chief Executive reaffirmed the Organisation’s unwavering commitment to standardization and quality assurance as critical drivers of industrial competitiveness.

In his remarks, the Assistant Director, Press and Public Relations, NADDC, Mr. Ikechukwu Okoha, provided an overview of the current state of Nigeria’s automotive industry. He highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between SON and NADDC in driving innovation, strengthening regulatory compliance, and supporting long-term sectoral growth.

SON, NIGERIAN INSTITUTION OF CIVIL ENGINEERS STRENGTHEN COLLABORATION AGAINST SUBSTANDARD CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Osun State Office, has strengthened collaboration with the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Osun State Chapter, to tackle the challenge of substandard materials in the construction sector.

The Director General/Chief Executive, SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, ably represented by the State Coordinator, Mrs. Folasade Owojori-Eluyemi, described the visit as timely and strategic to SON’s mandate of ensuring quality, safety, and standardization in Nigeria’s construction industry.

She emphasized SON’s role as the apex standards body, highlighting that adherence to standards is critical to safeguarding lives and property, especially as cases of building collapse are often linked to substandard materials. She further called for stronger collaboration with civil engineers, urging them to support the identification and reporting of substandard products encountered in the field.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the State Chairman of NICE, Engr. Bashiru Abiola, commended SON’s efforts in combating substandard products, while calling for intensified action in the steel and iron sector. He raised concerns over the mislabeling of non-Thermo Mechanical Treatment (TMT) rods as compliant products, stressing the importance of TMT rods for structural integrity.

Also speaking, the Unit Head, Mechanical Engineering, Engr. Olawuyi Emmanuel, sensitized the delegation on SON’s regulatory activities, including factory inspections, market surveillance, product sampling, and laboratory testing. He encouraged stakeholders to promptly report suspected substandard materials for necessary action.

Other officials present included the Unit Head, Civil Building and Mining, QS Mayomi Olasupo, and Engr. Akinwumi Adekeye.

THE STANDARDS COUNCIL OF NIGERIA HAD ORIENTATION, TOUR OF SON FACILITIES AND MAIDEN MEETING

SON Lagos II Presents MANCAP Certificates to Manufacturers

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Lagos II Office, has presented MANCAP certificates to manufacturers at its Laboratory Complex in Ogba, Lagos.

The Director General/Chief Executive, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, ably represented by the Director, Lagos Region, Mrs. Theresa Ojomo, highlighted the importance of MSMEs to Nigeria’s economy and reaffirmed SON’s commitment to supporting their growth through certification, subsidized services, and strategic initiatives.

A total of 56 companies with 146 products were certified for meeting Nigerian Industrial Standards, including 7up Bottling Company Ltd, Cadbury Nigeria Ltd, Mikano International Ltd, Astra Foods Ltd, and Universal Furniture Ltd, among others.

In her remarks, the State Coordinator, Engr. Mrs. Ugwueche MaryRose Ngozi, commended the awardees for their commitment to quality, while the Director of SON Laboratory Services, Mr. David Ikhenebome (represented by Mr. Yinka Adetoyi), encouraged continuous compliance and feedback.

Also speaking, the Head of MANCAP, Engr. Ayodele Akinware, Director of Marketing, Mr. Saidu Mairiga, and Engr. Irmiya Mamza (representing Standards Development), urged stakeholders to sustain quality standards and leverage SON services.

Beneficiaries, including representatives from Severity Micron Powder Ltd, Flavour and Fragrances Ltd, and Soul Mate Industries Ltd, appreciated SON’s role in promoting quality assurance and business growth.

SON, ANAMBRA STATE OFFICE II, NNEWI, BOOSTS LOCAL MANUFACTURERS WITH PRESENTATION OF MANCAP CERTIFICATES

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Anambra State Office II, Nnewi, in furtherance of its mandate to ensure the quality and standardization of locally manufactured products, has presented Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) Certificates to twenty-nine (29) companies covering one hundred and five (105) brands that successfully met the requirements of the Nigerian Industrial Standards.

The Director General/Chief Executive, SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, in a keynote address delivered on his behalf by the Director, Anambra Regional Operations, Mr. Gabriel Chinedu Agafie, emphasized that standards remain the backbone of sustainable industrialization and economic development. He noted that standards provide the framework for consistent quality, safety, and reliability, thereby enabling businesses to build consumer confidence and compete effectively in both local and international markets.

The Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) underscores this commitment by ensuring that all locally manufactured products comply with the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) prior to entry into the market. The scheme safeguards consumers, promotes fair competition, and strengthens the integrity of the nation’s manufacturing sector.

In her opening remarks, the State Coordinator, Anambra State Office II, Nnewi, Mrs. Blessing Okata, congratulated the recipients for their resilience and commitment to quality. She described the certification as a significant milestone and urged them to sustain quality practices while maximizing the benefits of certification.

The vote of thanks was delivered by the State Coordinator, Anambra State Office I, Awka, Engr. Fidelis Wariboko, who described the event as a key milestone in advancing SON’s mandate in Anambra State and enhancing the visibility of Nigerian products. He, however, cautioned that any deviation from prescribed standards would attract appropriate regulatory action.

SON HOSTS TECHNICAL COMMITTEE MEETING ON ENVIRONMENTAL SOUND MANAGEMENT OF CHEMICALS

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) convened a National Technical Committee meeting to review the draft Nigerian Standards on Environmental Sound Management of Chemicals at its Laboratory Complex in Ogba, Lagos, on April 14, 2026. The meeting focused on enhancing chemical safety, strengthening environmental governance, and promoting sustainable industrial development in Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Director General/Chief Executive, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, represented by the Head of Standards Development Department, Mr. Yunusa Mohammed, commended committee members for their commitment to ensuring that Nigerian standards remain relevant and responsive to emerging risks in line with global best practices.

He noted that chemical management has become increasingly critical worldwide due to its importance across industrial production, agriculture, healthcare, energy, and technological innovation. He emphasized that improper handling, storage, transportation, or disposal of chemicals poses significant risks to human health, workplace safety and ecosystems.

He further highlighted the role of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) as Nigeria’s primary authority for enforcing environmental laws and standards. He encouraged stakeholders to engage in open, objective, and constructive discussions, assuring them of SON’s continued collaboration in strengthening national management systems and advancing a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable environment.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the National Technical Committee, Professor Percy Onianwa, welcomed participants and commended their efforts toward promoting environmental safety. He urged active participation and meaningful contributions during the deliberations.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Group Head, ChemTech, Mr. Pankes Paul, appreciated participants for their valuable contributions and dedication to advancing environmental sustainability.

SON DRIVES QUALITY AWARENESS, ENGAGES NAOWA AND SOLDIERS’ WIVES IN EBONYI STATE

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Ebonyi State Office, on April 14, 2026, conducted a comprehensive sensitisation programme for members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and wives of Nigerian soldiers. The initiative aimed to promote awareness on product standards, consumer safety, and certification processes, while exploring avenues for strategic collaboration.

The event commenced with a rendition of the NAOWA Anthem, setting a patriotic and engaging tone for the session. Thereafter, the NAOWA Public Relations Officer formally introduced the SON delegation, led by the Ebonyi State Coordinator, Engr. Samuel Arotiowa A. Other members of the team included Mrs. Mercy Nwekete of the Food and Codex Department, Mrs. Kemakolam Chioma Prisca, Corporate Affairs Officer, and Mr. Agunloye Godwin.

Delivering a keynote address on behalf of the Director General/Chief Executive, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, Engr. Samuel Arotiowa, SON State Coordinator Ebonyi State Office underscored standardisation as a critical pillar for consumer protection and national economic development. He encouraged participants to strengthen their business ventures by leveraging SON’s certification schemes, particularly the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP), SON Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP), and the Product Identification Scheme (P*S).

The programme featured an interactive session during which participants engaged the State Coordinator on issues relating to business compliance and product safety.

In her closing remarks, the NAOWA Chairperson, Mrs. Ikenna Ijeoma Chielo, expressed appreciation to SON for the impactful engagement, noting that the knowledge gained would positively influence participants’ business practices. She also highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between NAOWA and SON.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP MEETING BETWEEN SON AND OAFN

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) held a strategic partnership meeting with the Organic Agriculture Foundation of Nigeria (OAFN) on 9th April 2026 at the Office of the Director General/Chief Executive to explore areas of collaboration, particularly in the development and harmonisation of national standards for organic agriculture in Nigeria. The meeting formed part of SON’s continued engagement with key stakeholders to strengthen quality assurance systems and support sustainable agricultural practices in the country.

The Director General/Chief Executive, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, was ably represented by Mrs. Emordi Helen, Assistant Director, National Product Certification Department (NPCD), who delivered the opening remarks. In her remarks, she welcomed participants and assured the stakeholders of SON’s commitment to a productive engagement and emphasised the Organisation’s readiness to collaborate with OAFN in advancing standardisation activities within the organic agriculture sector.

Speaking on behalf of OAFN, the National President, Mr. Joseph Ali highlighted the mandate, structure, and objectives of the Foundation and explained the importance of organic agriculture in promoting environmental sustainability, improving livelihoods, and strengthening the national economy. He further stated OAFN’s interest in working closely with SON toward the development of a national standard for organic agriculture and outlined certification approaches applicable within the sector, including self-certification, second-party certification through participatory guarantee systems, and third-party certification.

In response, Mrs. Emordi Helen noted that SON already has established structures that could support the proposed collaboration and stressed the importance of harmonising processes between both organisations. She further emphasised the need for sustained engagement between SON and OAFN, as well as the inclusion of relevant stakeholders in subsequent discussions to ensure a coordinated and effective approach to the development of organic agriculture standards.

SON DG HOSTS BAT EXECUTIVES, DIRECTS ACCELERATION OF STANDARDS FOR EMERGING TO***CO PRODUCTS

The Director General/Chief Executive of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, on Tuesday, 7th April 2026, received executives of British American To***co (BAT) on a courtesy visit at the Organisation’s headquarters.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to review progress on the development and completion of standards for emerging to***co products, specifically Heated To***co Products (HTP), E-cigarettes, and Ni****ne Pouches.

During the meeting, the Director General acknowledged the collaborative efforts of key government stakeholders, particularly the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, as well as the Honourable Minister of Health, in strengthening the regulatory framework for these products. He noted that the Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria has reviewed the relevant considerations and has formally accepted and issued directives mandating the inclusion of health warnings for the identified product categories.

In view of this development, the Director General directed the Head of Department, Standards Development, to immediately intensify efforts towards the finalisation of the three standards—HTP, E-cigarettes, and Ni****ne Pouches—ensuring full alignment with the approved health warning requirements and existing regulatory frameworks.

He further emphasized the importance of timely delivery, noting that the development of these standards is critical to safeguarding public health, ensuring regulatory clarity, and promoting compliance within the sector.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment by all parties to expedite the standards development process while maintaining due diligence, inclusive stakeholder engagement, and strict regulatory compliance.

SON PARTICIPATES IN KWARA STATE TWO-DAY ENGAGEMENT ON NATIONAL POLICY ON COSMETICS SAFETY, HEALTH AND IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) participated in a two-day state engagement on the National Policy on Cosmetics Safety and Health and its implementation plan.

The policy was recently approved and launched at the 66th National Council on Health Meeting held in Calabar, where Kwara State was identified as a priority state due to its significant role in cosmetics manufacturing, distribution, and consumption.

Representing the Organisation, Mrs. Dolapo Mariam of the Chemical Technology Unit delivered a presentation on the implementation plan on behalf of regulatory agencies, highlighting key strategies for effective policy ex*****on and strengthened stakeholder collaboration.

Other participating agencies included the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Kwara State Ministry of Environment, and the Kwara State Ministry of Health.

The engagement provided a platform for aligning regulatory efforts, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, and advancing the effective implementation of the national policy at the state level.

The DG/CE SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole for monthly briefing on SON activities and programmes on Tuesday 7th April, 2026 at FMITI.