Help Us Expose Peddlers of Fake Products in the Market
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has urged Nigerians to actively report individuals and businesses responsible for introducing fake and substandard goods into the country’s markets.
This call was made by the Director General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, during a one-day stakeholders’ workshop titled “Growing Businesses Through Standardisation” held in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. Represented by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Talutu Ethan, Dr. Okeke emphasized the importance of public involvement in eliminating counterfeit products.
“The aim of this workshop is to strengthen and deepen stakeholders’ understanding of standardisation and how it can support business growth,” Ethan said
She pointed out that in the current economic climate, the credibility of a business matters just as much as the quality of its output.
“Customers want to know not just what you produce, but how you produce it. Whether it’s the rice mills in Ikwo, palm oil processors in Afikpo, or block moulders and welders across Abakaliki—Ebonyi’s productive strength is evident. However, to compete in premium markets, products must meet established standards,” she added.
Dr. Okeke emphasized that these standards are meant to serve as tools for market credibility and business protection—not as obstacles.
“This workshop is not just about education or empowerment. We want every participant to leave with practical knowledge on how standardisation can help achieve business goals,” she said.
She outlined the benefits for various sectors, from agriculture to manufacturing:
For farmers and food processors: Better hygiene, packaging, and labeling enhance value.
For traders and cooperatives: Certification opens access to new markets.
For young entrepreneurs: Compliance boosts brand trust.
For importers and manufacturers: Easier navigation of SONCAP and MANCAP processes.
“SON is not here to penalize, but to support. We are decentralizing services, enhancing digital access, and bringing assistance closer to the people through training, testing, and faster certification processes,” Ethan noted.
She also warned of the dangers fake goods pose to honest businesses.
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“When one trader floods the market with fake products, it damages the reputation of genuine producers. Our enforcement is active, but we need the support and vigilance of the public,” she said.
Guest speaker Mr. Lawal Ayanda reinforced the importance of using certified Made-in-Nigeria products—especially electrical items.
“Nigerian-made cables are flame retardant and of high quality. Every genuine Nigerian cable bears the SON logo,” Ayanda stated.
The event drew participants from major regulatory bodies including the Nigeria Police Force, NAFDAC, FRSC and the Nigeria Immigration Service, among others.
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