According to the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), subpar goods cost consumers an average of N15 trillion yearly.
Additionally, the agency urged Nigerians to support local producers who are under threat from the threat of inferior products by appreciating and purchasing made-in-Nigeria items.
Chief Executive/Lead Consultant of Pearlcee Consult Limited, Mrs. Chinyere Egwuonu, said that the country has suffered under the burden of fake and substandard products, describing it as a threat to the economy that is also affecting the industrial revolution plan. She was speaking at a One-Day Stakeholders’ Sensitization Workshop/Mandatory Assessment Conformity Assessment Programme, MANCAP, Certification presentation with the theme: “Zero Tolerance for Sub–Standard Products”
According to her, there are a number of factors contributing to the proliferation of substandard products in Nigerian markets, including the absence of SON at ports of entry, inadequate testing facilities, and porous land borders, which encourage the smuggling of substandard products into the nation due to ineffective control.
Prior to this, Mallam Farouk, the director general of SON, had stated that there was a connection between the SON and the industries, adding that the industries were more significant than any branch or agency of government because they provide jobs, pay taxes, and protect us from insecurity.
“While industry is the beating heart of the country, SON is the beating heart of industries, so working together would be best.
“Industries are crucial to the growth and diversity of the economy of a country, and if our industry is thriving, our currency won’t collapse.
“Inferior products are a matter of life and death for our country and industry; businesses cannot thrive with substandard products.
Nigerians must become aware, value, and patronize things created in Nigeria.
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, or MAN, is doing an excellent job, but it must do more to prevent the importation of subpar goods.
