SON To Elevate MSMEs To Global Standards

The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has reaffirmed its commitment to bolster the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector, by paving the way for global standards and sustainable development.

This is just as the director general(DG) of SON, Farouk Salim, affirmed that MSMEs hold the power the stimulate local investment, encourage innovative and foster new industries.

Salim gave the assertion at a stakeholders’ sensitisation forum held in Ilorin, capital of Kwara State.

Speaking on the themes: ‘Globalising The Nigerian MSMEs Through Standardization And Quality Assurance,’ he said, the event was aimed to ignite awareness among stakeholders about the crucial role of standardisation and quality assurance in catapulting Nigerian MSMEs onto the global stage.

Salim maintained that, this campaign stands as a pivotal regulatory mechanism, strategically devised by SON, to eradicate substandard and adulterated products that hinder the nation’s progress.

Represented by the director of the North Central, SON, Babaji Saleh informed that, “at SON, we are cognizant that an informed, educated, and sensitized citizenry forms the cornerstone of effective regulation. As we strive to enhance public safety, improve lives, safeguard Nigerian industries, and ensure citizen security, the empowerment of our citizens becomes paramount.”

He highlighted the role of technology in fostering global industrialisation, elucidating how the advent of the internet has seamlessly interconnected industries, transcending geographical boundaries. With this technological landscape, he said, even Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can actively participate in global commerce, significantly boosting economic growth, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and enhancing the standard of living.

In alignment with Nigeria’s broader economic policies such as the Nigeria Economy Sustainable Plan (NESP), Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP), and Presidential Enabling Business Environmental Counci l(PEBEC), SON has consistently emphasized the pivotal role of standardisation in fostering the growth of MSMEs.

This holistic approach aims to nurture inclusive, diversified, and sustainable economic development within the nation.

The assurance of quality and safety is a paramount aspect of this commitment. Babaji reassured Nigerian consumers and the global community that ‘Made-in–Nigeria’ products adhere to high standards, adding that, credibility is evidenced through certification status, ensuring that Nigerian products are reliable, efficient, and widely acceptable.

Furthermore, the director general urged Nigerians to actively support SON’s crusade against substandard and adulterated products.

Babaji implored Nigerians to serve as ‘change agents,’ proactively contributing to the nation’s betterment by reporting unethical practices involving substandard products.

The Kwara State coordinator of SON, Ayobola Feyisipo Ayeni, stressed that, the sensitisation initiative is imperative for improved standardisation, rapid MSME growth, and the competitive positioning of Nigerian products in international markets.

Ayeni highlighted the importance of quality assessment, urging Nigerians to embrace locally produced goods and cultivate discernment in their choices.

Director of the National Metrological Institute and guest speaker at the event, Shuaibu Onucheyo Enebi, emphasised that MSMEs are the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, adding that, by offering platforms for job creation, revenue generation, and abundant economic growth, they play a pivotal role in the nation’s development.

With proper orientation and execution, Enebi said, MSMEs hold the power to stimulate local investments, encourage innovation, and foster new industries.