From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), hosted operators of the Special Economic Zones to discuss grey areas surrounding the implementation of the Special Economic Zones Conformity Assessment Programme (SEZCAP).
The Special Economic Zones Conformity Assessment Programme (SEZCAP) is an initiative to enhance the production, importation, sales, and distribution of quality and safe locally manufactured products in Nigeria and for those to be imported into the Country.
This was contained in a statement issued in Abuja indicating that the Director-General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke said his Organization will extend its services to ensure that products designated for the Nigerian markets meet the requirements of the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) or other regulatory supports for products designated for exports.
Dr. Okeke who was represented by Engr. Onucheyo Enebi further explained that SON is extending its activities to the Special Economic Zones, comprising Kano, Calabar, and Lagos, to boost standardization activities in those areas.
The DG while commending the Chief Executive of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) Dr Olufemi Ogunyemi, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Mr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and other stakeholders for their cooperation in providing the platform for the interface, he also reiterated the Organization’s commitment towards ensuring the production and distribution of quality and safe products for Nigerian markets, through its certification processes as mandated by the Act establishing it.
Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director of NEPZA Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi commended the DG of SON for his commitment, consistency, and support for inter-agency cooperation and for also taking prompt actions in ensuring the markets and country are free of substandard goods which will in turn protect the interest of consumers and the general public.
The Managing Director represented by Mrs. Dayo Dada therefore encouraged operators to freely express their concerns on the implementation of the SEZCAP certification programme
Engr. Akinware Ayodele, the Head of the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP), emphasized the pivotal role of the SEZCAP certification scheme in enhancing the operational standards within Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
He detailed the rigorous processes and procedures involved in the SEZCAP certification, which ensure that businesses operating within SEZs meet high-quality benchmarks.
This not only bolsters investor confidence but also fosters a competitive business environment, ultimately driving economic growth and development. The SEZCAP scheme stands as a crucial element in maintaining the integrity and sustainability of SEZs, aligning them with global best practices and contributing to the broader economic strategy.
