SON Adopts 88 Int’l Standards To Drive CNG Initiatives

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has adopted 88 international standards for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) products to support the federal government’s CNG initiatives, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic agenda.

This disclosure was made by the director-general of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, during the celebration of the 2024 World Standards Day, yesterday in Abuja. Okeke emphasised that the adoption of these standards is critical to ensuring the success of Nigeria’s transition to CNG and enhancing the safety and quality of products used in the sector.

The theme of the 2024 World Standards Day, “Shared Vision for a Better World,” focuses on Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) of the United Nations, which highlights industry, innovation, and infrastructure. According to Okeke, standards are crucial to advancing SDG 9 by promoting resilient infrastructure, fostering sustainable industrialisation, and encouraging innovation.

“Standards play a key role in driving renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices, all of which are essential in tackling climate change,” Okeke said. He added that global collaboration among standards bodies helps align efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring peace, prosperity, and the welfare of people and the planet.

As part of its commitment to quality assurance, he noted that SON is actively involved in developing the Natural Gas Vehicles Monitoring System (NGVMS) to oversee the implementation of CNG systems in vehicles.

This is also in addition to conducting factory inspections in China and India to certify CNG components and kits, prioritising safety and reliability.

Okeke commended the efforts of SON’s management, the National Technical Committee, and other stakeholders for their contributions to developing and maintaining standards. He reiterated SON’s dedication to improving the quality of life through standardisation, fostering consumer confidence, and enhancing the global competitiveness of Made-in-Nigeria products.

“Together, with the support of our partners and citizens, we can achieve our shared vision for a sustainable future,” Okeke concluded.