By Kayode Ogunwale

L-R The Director Laboratory service, Mr. David Ikhenebome and Director Corporate Affairs Standard Organization of Nigeria, Mrs. Ethan Talatu at a one-day capacity building workshop for media stakeholders on Tuesday.

 

The Director General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, has called on media practitioners across Nigeria to actively champion the cause of national standards in the country.

Speaking through the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Talatu Ethan, during a one-day capacity-building workshop held for the Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN) in Lagos, Dr. Okeke emphasised the critical role that journalists play in advocating for quality and promoting Nigerian industrial standards.

In his address, Dr. Okeke expressed his profound gratitude for the media’s influence in shaping national discourse.

He highlighted that thoughtful journalism can significantly affect policy direction, as well as inform, enlighten, and educate the Nigerian populace.

He urged media professionals to embrace the responsibility of being advocates for quality standards, viewing themselves as essential partners in the nation’s progress towards improved industrial practices and consumer safety.

He elaborated by stating, “We acknowledge that the various platforms you operate—whether they be in print, broadcast, or digital formats—play a crucial role in shaping public perception, influencing consumer behaviour and impacting industrial compliance. The power of your pen and voice cannot be underestimated; it possesses the potential to drive significant change, clarify complex standards, and enrich national dialogues surrounding products that are made in Nigeria, the importance of quality assurance, and the nation’s competitiveness in a global marketplace.”

Okeke called upon the attendees to take on the mantle of advocates for quality and to emerge as champions of the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS).

He emphasised the vital part that each individual in the room could play in promoting the Nigeria First policy, which emphasises the importance of supporting locally made and certified products.

The DG said the commitment goes beyond just personal advocacy; it includes a responsibility to educate every operator across the various sectors, as well as the general public, on the significance of standardisation.

He expressed that an understanding of these principles is essential for Nigeria to truly harness the full potential and reap the extensive benefits offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA).

“The successful implementation of this policy not only enhances consumer confidence in homegrown products but also fortifies Nigeria’s position in the increasingly competitive landscape of international trade.”

He urged CICAN members to take proactive steps in championing not only the visibility but also the manifold benefits associated with the key initiatives spearheaded by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria. Among these initiatives are the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) and various other product certification schemes designed to enhance product quality and safety, he said.

“These services are not limited to, but include, calibrating services which are essential for ensuring precision in measurements; Management Systems Certification that assists organisations in establishing effective systems for quality control and operational efficiency; as well as training programs aimed at equipping personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary for compliance and best practices in industry standards.”

In his remarks, the Chairman of CICAN, Mr. Charles Okonji, emphasised the need for media empowerment and partnership in light of the persistent challenges posed by rising inflation.

He pointed out the alarming increases in the prices of essential goods and services, which have significantly impacted the real sector of the economy.

Okonji explained that it is crucial to enlighten the public about the government’s initiatives aimed at addressing these economic difficulties.

He characterised the capacity-building workshop as not only welcome but also timely, highlighting its importance in facilitating informed dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.

Okonji advocated for the sustained partnership with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, underscoring the potential for mutual benefits that such collaboration could yield.