The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) says it plans to commence full scale enforcement to rid the country of substandard steel products.
Mr Farouk Salim, SON’s Director-General made this known on Tuesday, in Asaba, at a meeting of steel manufacturers and dealers in the South-South and South East geopolitical zones.
Salim said that a three-month ultimatum on the need to clear the markets of substandard steel rods was issued in March and would soon expire.
“After the expiration of the three months ultimatum to dealers in steel, the agency will commence full scale enforcement, to rid factories and markets of substandard steel rods and anyone found culpable would be prosecuted,” he said.
Salim urged steel manufacturers to uphold quality and standard in the production of their products.
He said that standard and quality steel products would ensure large market-shares for businesses and companies, which in turn would lead to high revenue-earnings, job opportunities and export promotion.
“So, we are appealing to you all in the steel industry to cooperate with SON so that wealth and value can be created.
“Do the right thing, do not cut corners. The benefits of standard and quality products to the economy can lead to healthy lives, safer environment, employment generation and industrial growth,” he said.
Salim also urged the manufacturers and dealers to come together and form an organised union, or association, for self regulation.
“Some of you are complaining that there is unfairness in the enforcement.
“The only way we can make sure we have a uniform approach to everything and deal with you properly is when you form a union,” he said.
Mr Nnemeka Onwuzuluike, Chairman, Iron Dealers Association, Onitsha, urged the Federal Government to make the manufacturers weigh the iron bars and issue receipts for easy identification of companies.
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