In a firm demonstration of its resolve to sanitize the Nigerian market and protect consumers, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) on Tuesday destroyed a large consignment of substandard goods at its warehouse in Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos.
The seized items, which included stuffed tyres, substandard steel doors, and faulty spark plugs, were condemned and set ablaze under the supervision of SON officials, industry stakeholders, and representatives of security agencies.
Speaking during the destruction exercise, the Director General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, who was represented by Mr Mandi Pious Lawan described the event as a bold step toward safeguarding the health and safety of Nigerians. He warned that SON would not relent in its enforcement of standards, even as it intensifies efforts to rid Nigerian markets of counterfeit and unsafe products.
“This action is not just an administrative formality, It is an affirmation of our unwavering commitment to public safety, consumer protection, and the promotion of fair-trade practices in Nigeria”, he said.
Highlighting the dangers posed by the substandard products, he noted that the stuffed tyres were potential death traps capable of causing road accidents, the steel doors failed safety and durability standards, while the defective spark plugs could result in engine malfunctions and other mechanical failures.
The Director General emphasized that the operation aligns with the SON’s mandate as outlined in the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Act No. 14 of 2015, which empowers the agency to enforce standards and ensure only safe, certified products are permitted in the Nigerian market.
“This is a firm reminder to all stakeholders in the Nigerian market – from producers to consumers – that SON will continue to ensure that substandard goods do not have a place in our country,” he said.
Dr. Okeke also used the opportunity to commend the SON Inspectorate and Compliance Department, whose surveillance and enforcement efforts led to the confiscation of the unsafe goods. He further appreciated the collaboration of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Customs Service, and other relevant agencies for their continued support in the fight against substandard products.
He urged Nigerian consumers to always insist on quality, certified products, noting that public participation remains vital in the collective effort to cleanse the market of hazardous items.
“Together, we can ensure that the Nigerian market is free from the dangers of substandard goods,” he stated.
Dr. Okeke concluded by reaffirming SON’s commitment to upholding its regulatory mandate and pledged that the agency will not rest until Nigeria is free from the scourge of substandard products.
He noted that the destruction exercise serves as a warning to unscrupulous importers and local manufacturers that the era of compromise on standards is over, as SON doubles down on its mission to ensure consumer safety and restore integrity to Nigeria’s industrial and commercial landscape.
