The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has said that standards compliance is crucial for Nigerian products to compete under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a pathway to unlock global market opportunities.
Speaking at a recently held training and workshop for Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria, Ifeanyi Okeke, director general and CEO of SON, stated that compliance with standards opens up regional and international markets for Nigerian products, especially under the AfCFTA.
Okeke said that by adhering to globally accepted quality benchmarks, Nigerian manufacturers can significantly enhance the competitiveness of their products, making them more acceptable across Africa and beyond.
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“As Nigeria strives to diversify its economy and position itself competitively within the African market and beyond, standards have become the currency of global relevance. They are not just tools for regulation; they are instruments of growth, innovation, consumer safety, and trade,” he said.
Okeke stated that the benefits of standards and standardisation are immense, noting that standards ensure that goods and services meet minimum safety and quality benchmarks, protecting Nigerians from harm.
“Compliance with standards opens up regional and international markets for Nigerian products, especially under the AfCFTA framework.
“Standards drive process efficiency, reduce production costs, and improve the quality of outputs. They promote sustainability and eco-friendly practices in production and service delivery.
SON DG, represented by Talatu Ethan, director, corporate affairs of SON, added that adherence to standards fosters innovation and encourages the adoption of global best practices.
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He further urged members of the press to become advocates of quality and champions of the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) by sensitising local manufacturers, MSMEs, and the general public on the importance of compliance and how standardisation helps Nigeria harness the full benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“Members of the press, your pen is powerful; it can catalyse change, demystify standards, and deepen national conversations around Made-in-Nigeria products, quality assurance, and competitiveness.
“In this regard, we task you with the responsibility of becoming advocates of quality and champions of the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS),” Okeke said.
He added that such efforts are crucial in improving product quality and sharpening Nigeria’s competitive edge in international markets.
