The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has vowed to crack down on manufacturers and distributors of substandard steel products in the country.
At a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, SON’s Chairman of the Special Task Force, Engr. Enebi Onuchenyo, warned that anyone found guilty of producing or distributing substandard steel would be prosecuted.
The meeting was called to address concerns over the quality of steel and iron rods in the country, with distributors expressing worries about the presence of substandard products in the market.
Onuchenyo emphasized that SON would work with manufacturers and distributors to identify and prosecute those responsible for the substandard products.
He also urged manufacturers to engage in self-regulation, stressing that it is the best form of regulation globally.
Onuchenyo noted that SON has given manufacturers and distributors seven days to provide information on their suppliers and distributors to support the fight against substandard goods.
Felix Oba-Okogie, Coordinator of the Steel Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Group, denied allegations of substandard steel production, describing them as baseless.
He called on SON to investigate the allegations and take action against those responsible.
Chukwudi Umeh, a member of the Iron Dealers Association of Nigeria, commended SON for regulating the steel and iron rod sector and pledged the association’s support.
He advised manufacturers to identify their customers to facilitate tracing of products that fail to meet the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS).
Umeh also recommended that SON conduct market research and raids to detect substandard products. He urged SON to intensify its enforcement efforts by visiting sites where iron and steel are sold to interrogate dealers.
Overall, SON is taking a strong stance against substandard steel products, and manufacturers and distributors have been warned to comply with regulations or face prosecution.
The agency is working with stakeholders to identify and address the issue, and has called for self-regulation and cooperation from manufacturers and distributors
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