SON tasks manufacturers on conforming to export standards

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Director General of the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) Osita Aboloma has advised producers and manufacturers of products to ensure their brands conform with the required export standards that will raise the country income through exports.
He gave the advice while presenting certificates to seven companies that have remained consistent in the quality of their products in kaduna yesterday
According to him the recognition of the Companies follows checks of the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP), worthy of export as a result of their conforming to standards and were awarded certificates to that effect, to serve as an example for others to emulate.
“Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) was put in place by this organization (SON) in the year 2006 to ensure that all locally manufactured producers conform to the relevant Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) prior to sales in the market or export,” the DG, represented by the SON Kaduna State Coordinator, Danlami Datti said.
He further said that the scheme is aimed at protecting genuine manufacturers against unhealthy practices such as production of substandard products, faking and counterfeiting as well as unfair competition in trade.
“They complied to the various International standards and we’re identified. Different groups were here.
“It is to build the confidence of the consumers. Instead of going outside abroad, they will patronize products made here,” he added.
Those that received the certificates were; Big Treat Confectioneries, Biz Integrity Ventures, DICON Research Institute, Dorseka Nigeria LTD, Peugeot Automobile Nigeria LTD, (301 and 508), Richifa Blocks Industry, Zagi Concrete Industry
Fielding questions from newsmen, MD PAN, Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed assured that they will continue to conform to standards.
“It is consistency that gave us the recognition. We hope to go back to full production known as CKD production. We are beginning to go to multibrand not only Peugeot. PAN Nigeria LTD is multibranded company,” he said.
Also speaking, Kaduna Branch Manager Big Treat Confectionery, Rotimi Adeosun said that their consistency in operating in a hygienic environment earned them the certificate.
“We have a good environment and standards. Our products, Happy Chef and Puma are the those that gave us an edge,” he added.
On his part, Ekundayo Timi Gbenga, who represented DICON said that though their primary responsibility is the production of arms and ammunition for Nigeria, but they diversify into civilian products like liquid detergent.