The Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) has officially certified 107 products from 44 companies in Anambra State, reinforcing its commitment to quality and safety in the manufacturing sector. This certification, conducted under the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP), aims to ensure that locally produced goods adhere to national standards. The certification event, held at SON’s Anambra Office 1 in Awka on Thursday, included approvals for newly introduced products, renewals for previously certified goods, and certifications for imported commodities.
Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, the Director-General of SON, highlighted the significance of quality assurance in local manufacturing. Represented by Mr. Chinedu Agafie, Director of SON’s Anambra Regional Office, Dr. Okeke noted that certification is vital for national compliance and plays a crucial role in boosting the competitiveness of Nigerian-made goods on a global scale. “Certifying locally manufactured products fosters a culture of quality awareness and ensures that products and services align with both local and international consumer expectations,” he stated.
The Director-General further urged manufacturers to uphold high standards in their production processes, emphasizing that maintaining and enhancing quality is essential in a competitive business environment. He stressed that quality goes beyond merely meeting regulatory standards; it also involves ensuring customer satisfaction, which leads to sustained patronage and greater business profitability. “If you do not prioritize quality, consumers will quickly switch to alternative products,” he cautioned.
In addition, Dr. Okeke commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for fostering a business-friendly climate in Anambra, which has significantly contributed to the growth of the local manufacturing sector. “We appreciate Governor Soludo’s dedication to creating an enabling environment that supports business activities in Anambra State,” he remarked.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Emmanuel Husseni, the State Coordinator for SON’s Anambra Office 1, congratulated the certified companies for meeting SON’s rigorous requirements. He encouraged manufacturers to utilize SON’s calibration services to further enhance the quality of their products and advised them to prominently display the updated MANCAP certification logo to reflect their dedication to superior standards.
Mrs. Christiana Nwaele, Managing Director of Sylflora Industries and Farms, spoke on behalf of the certified manufacturers, expressing gratitude to SON for its role in boosting consumer confidence in locally made goods. However, she raised concerns about the increasing number of unregulated manufacturers operating outside SON’s supervision, warning that such practices pose risks to consumers and compliant businesses alike. She called for stricter regulations to address this issue and ensure that all products in the market meet required safety and quality standards.
As Anambra State continues to establish itself as a center of manufacturing excellence in Nigeria, the recognition of these 44 companies underscores the significance of adhering to high production standards. This achievement highlights the necessity for continuous improvement in the sector, allowing Nigerian-made goods to compete effectively in both domestic and international markets. The MANCAP certification represents a crucial step in enhancing the credibility of locally manufactured products while contributing to economic growth through superior production practices.
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