The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is actively working to elevate the quality and global marketability of Nigerian-made goods, with a specific focus on products originating from Aba. This initiative aims to bolster consumer trust and foster widespread acceptance of “Made-in-Aba” items on the international stage.
A key component of this effort is the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP). Through MANCAP, SON collaborates directly with manufacturers, ensuring their products adhere to the stringent requirements outlined in the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS). This involves a comprehensive process encompassing inspections of production facilities, product sampling, and rigorous testing to verify compliance with NIS specifications.
Manufacturers successfully meeting the required standards are awarded MANCAP certification, a mark of quality assurance signifying their products have met established benchmarks. SON has been proactively engaging with manufacturers in Aba, particularly those in the leather industry, providing education on standardization practices and offering guidance to facilitate the production of goods that satisfy both domestic and international standards.
Aharanwa Chuks, SON’s Director of Region (South East), emphasizes the organization’s dedication to supporting manufacturers in Aba and across Nigeria in producing high-quality, globally competitive products. “We are working closely with manufacturers to ensure that their products meet the required standards, and we are providing them with the necessary guidance and support to achieve this goal,” Chuks stated.
Achieving MANCAP certification promises to significantly enhance consumer confidence and improve the global perception and acceptance of “Made-in-Aba” products. This initiative is projected to positively impact the Nigerian economy by empowering local manufacturers to compete more effectively within global markets.
The ramifications of this initiative are far-reaching. Beyond enhancing the quality of “Made-in-Aba” products, it will bolster their global competitiveness, ultimately leading to increased export opportunities, job creation, and overall economic expansion.
