3rd Anniversary: SON Awards 18 Companies, Recognizes 59 Brands in Nnewi

By Praise Chinecherem

Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) in Anambra State has awarded certificates to 18 companies and recognized 59 brands of products duly certified.

The companies and their products were recognized and celebrated in a brief ceremony at Anambra State Office II, Nnewi, Anambra State, Wednesday.

The SON said the companies recognized with the awards had demonstrated excellence by achieving Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MAN CAP) certification or recertification.

Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the organization, Dr Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke said the awards were more than just certificates.

He told the recipients that they should see it as a reflection of hard work, adherence to best practices, and a shared vision for quality and sustainability.

The DG, represented by the Director, SON, Anambra Region, Mr Agaife Gabriel said companies receiving those certificates had shown that with determination and the right support, Nigerian industries could meet global standards and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth.

The event also featured an exhibition of projects, providing a platform for manufacturers to showcase their innovations and quality achievements.

He said the exhibition served as an inspiration to other businesses, a reminder that quality is not just a destination but a journey that required continual improvement.

“For consumers and stakeholders here present, the exhibition is a testament to the progress we are making as a nation in producing goods that are fit for a purpose, reliable, and globally competitive.

“While we celebrate these remarkable achievements, I must emphasize that standards are dynamic, constantly evolving to meet technological advancements and consumer expectations.

“I encourage all stakeholders, especially manufacturers, to view compliance with standards as an ongoing commitment.

“To those yet to achieve MANCAP certification, let this occasion inspire you to take proactive steps toward aligning with the standards that will unlock new opportunities and strengthen your business resilience.

“SON remains ready to provide the necessary technical support, guidance, and capacity-building, “he said.

The DG explained that standards are the backbone of sustainable industrialization and economic development.

He said they provide the framework for consistent quality, safety, and reliability, enabling businesses to gain consumer trust and compete effectively in both local and global markets.

He explained that SON’s mission is to promote those standards as a critical tool for transforming the industries and enhancing the well-being of Nigerians.

He made it clear that MANCAP is a testament to the mission. He said it ensured that all locally manufactured products comply with Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) before they are introduced into the market.

The occasion was also used to celebrate three years anniversary of Anambra State Office II, Nnewi established in February 2022.

The man in charge of the State Office II, Mr Michael Ogbuji Chukwudi commended the efforts of the SON’s management for finding it necessary to create the State Office.

He also expressed appreciation to the DG/CE, Dr Okeke who he described as being highly revered and staff -friendly for providing the needed resources, proper guidance and effective supervision for the sustenance and smooth operations of the State Office.

“I am particularly grateful to Almighty God because when this State Office was created, I was posted here as the pioneer State Coordinator, saddled with the responsibility to oversee the smooth operations of the office.

“Also, today Providence has made me the Chief host to celebrate the three years anniversary of the Office and to account for my stewardship within the period of my leadership. I give Him all the glory for these rare privileges, which I treasure so immensely with profound gratitude.

“The Office under my watch has enjoyed cordial relationship and consistent support from different leaderships of the SON supervisory Directorate, Anambra Region and stakeholders.

“We have made significant achievements in the areas of standardization and quality assurance activities, in compliance with the provisions of the SON Act 14 of 2015, “he also added.

He enumerated the achievements of the Office II to include certification of 51 companies with 141 product brands; 97 companies products revalidated and 23 new companies discovered.

Others are 20 new products discovered while 205 products registration certificates were issued to importers.