In a significant move to bolster the standardisation and quality assurance efforts in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, an accomplished financial expert and tax consultant, as the new director general of the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON).
This strategic appointment underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety, quality, and competitiveness of products and services within the country.
Dr. Okeke, a distinguished fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role. His educational journey includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy, a Master of Science in Accounting, a Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting, and a Master of Business Administration.
These qualifications were earned from reputable institutions, such as Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka and the University of Nigeria in Nsukka.
With his substantial background in finance, taxation, and accounting, Okeke has also demonstrated his leadership skills by serving as the immediate past Chairman of the Imo State Internal Revenue Services (IIRS).
The appointment of Okeke comes as part of President Bola Tinubu’s vision to revive the nation’s economy through the facilitation of small, medium, and large-scale industries.
This vision is built on a foundation of trade expansion, and Okeke’s role as the director general of SON plays a pivotal part in this endeavour.
Upon assuming his new role, Dr. Okeke outlined his vision for SON, emphasising that “quality is a journey with no destination.”
He envisions SON becoming a leading standardisation body in Africa and a prominent global organisation. His administration’s key priorities include:
Enhancing Standards Development: Okeke and his team will rigorously develop and implement standards in line with global best practices, fostering innovation and competitiveness within Nigerian industries.
Strengthening Regulatory Enforcement: The enforcement of standards is at the core of SON’s mission, and it will be intensified to ensure that substandard and unsafe products do not harm citizens or harm the reputation of Nigerian products and services.
Promoting International Trade: Dr Okeke intends to support Nigerian businesses in their efforts to compete effectively in the global market, fostering collaboration with industries and international partnerships to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian products.
Embracing Technology: In an ever-evolving industrial landscape, technology plays a crucial role. Dr. Okeke will leverage technology to make SON’s operations more efficient, transparent, and adaptable to stakeholders’ needs.
Dr. Okeke’s administration will focus on SON’s core mandate, which includes preparing standards for various elements, such as products, measurement, materials, processes, and services. The aim is to promote consumer confidence and boost the global competitiveness of Nigerian products and services. This mission is rooted in the Act establishing the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON).
President Bola Tinubu has set high expectations for all new appointees in this critical sector. He expects them to deliver optimally in accordance with new key performance indicators established by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, which align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration.
With this directive from the President, Dr. Okeke’s appointment as director general of SON takes immediate effect. His tenure is anticipated to bring a renewed focus on quality standards, safety, and economic growth within Nigeria.
Stakeholders and citizens can look forward to a period of progress under Dr. Okeke’s leadership.
As SON strives to meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and competitiveness, the nation’s industries and products are poised to shine on both the national and international stages.
Dr. Okeke’s appointment represents another step toward realising the economic vision of the current administration, and many are eager to see the positive changes that will unfold under his capable leadership.
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