In a bid to ensure standards education, strengthen public awareness, and uphold quality assurance across all sectors of the economy, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), in partnership with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has convened a high-level stakeholders’ forum, in Abuja, FCT.
ConsumerConnect reports Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, Director-General/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), in his opening remarks at the recent stakeholders’ forum, reaffirmed the Organisation’s commitment to global best practices.
SON, in a note, disclosed Dr. Okeke also highlighted how the adoption of IEC standards has led to improved local production, especially in electrical cables in Nigeria.
The West African country’s standard regulatory Organisation as well explained the stakeholders at the forum engaged in robust discussions that dwelt on conformity assessment and enforcement, digital access to over 11,000 standards, and building national annexes to reflect Nigerian conditions.
SON further noted the discussions at the meeting focused on educating engineers and students on standardisation, supporting certified local manufacturers, including those under SON’s MANCAP scheme, and curbing substandard imports through SONCAP and factory inspections in the country.
Speaking the event also, Mr. Philippe Metzger, Secretary-General/CEO of IEC, lauded Nigeria’s “economic significance, and encouraged stronger involvement in IEC governance to shape standards that reflect Africa’s unique needs.”
The Organisation said Metzger outlined IEC’s focus on digital innovation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), sustainability, and low-carbon technologies.
He also described Nigeria as “a strategic partner in building a safer, all-electric digital society.”
Among other top players in the global standardisation and power ecosystem that graced the stakeholders’ forum in Abuja include Engr. Sanusi Garba, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC); Prof. Ade Ogunsola, President of IEC National Committee Nigeria; Mrs. Talatu Ethan, Director of Corporate Affairs at SON.
Others are representatives of IEC Africa, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE); National Universities Commission (NUC), members of the diplomatic corps, and key industry stakeholders.
SON restated its drive to ensure standards education, strengthen public awareness, and uphold quality assurance across all sectors of the economy.
It added: “Together, we move Nigeria forward—powered by standards, driven by innovation.”