STANDARD ORGANISATION OF NIGERIA (SON)

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is a governmental agency responsible for standardization, quality assurance, and metrology in Nigeria. It was established in 1971 and operates under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. The primary objective of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria is to ensure compliance with national and international standards for products, processes, and services in Nigeria. It develops and promotes standards across various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, petroleum, construction, and consumer products. The key functions of SON include: Standardization: SON develops and publishes Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) in collaboration with stakeholders. These standards define the minimum requirements that products and processes must meet to ensure safety, quality, and compatibility with international norms. Quality Assurance: SON carries out quality inspections, product testing, and certification to ensure that goods produced in or imported into Nigeria meet the required standards. The organization operates testing laboratories and certifies products with the "SONCAP" (Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme) mark, indicating compliance with standards. Metrology: SON is responsible for maintaining and disseminating accurate and reliable measurements and units of measurement in Nigeria. It establishes and maintains national measurement standards and ensures their traceability to international standards. Consumer Protection: SON safeguards the interests of Nigerian consumers by ensuring that products and services meet the required standards and are safe for use. It conducts surveillance and market monitoring to detect substandard products and takes appropriate regulatory actions. Capacity Building: SON provides training and technical support to industries, laboratories, and stakeholders to enhance their understanding of standards, quality management systems, and testing methodologies. The Standards Organisation of Nigeria plays a vital role in promoting quality, safety, and competitiveness in Nigerian industries and protecting consumers from substandard products. Its activities contribute to the development of a robust and sustainable economy in Nigeria.