The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has debunked claims by the Iron Rod and Steel Distributors Employers Union of Nigeria IRSDEUN, that it has been unable to check the circulation of substandard products in the Nigerian market
statement expressef dissatisfaction with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), alleging its ineffectiveness in curbing the circulation of substandard products in the Nigerian market.
According to the SON “we find this narrative to be deeply flawed and misleading.”
The SON noted that contrary to the claims made by the IRSDEUN, its investigations and stringent
monitoring mechanisms have revealed a different reality, hence the need to set the record straight and address the inaccuracies presented by the Union.
Firstly, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria vehemently rejects the assertion that SON has been lax in its regulatory duties. On the contrary, SON has been proactive in implementing measures to ensure that only products meeting the required quality standards are allowed into the market. “Our efforts have led to significant strides in curbing the proliferation of substandard iron rods and steel products.” A statement from the SON adds.
Furthermore, the suggestion that iron and steel distributors are mere victims in this scenario is disingenuous
The SON Statement signed by its Director, Public Relations, Mrs Foluso Bolaji revealed tha “Credible findings indicate that distributors themselves have been implicated as key players in the dissemination of substandard products, There have been instances where distributors exert pressure on manufacturers to produce substandard goods for their selfish gains, thus perpetuating the cycle of substandard
products in the market. ”
Moreover, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by STEELMAN (an association of Steel Manufacturing companies who form a voluntary self – regulatory team) in February, 2024, under the auspices of SON, underscores our commitment to quality assurance. The self-regulating system adopted by these companies, in collaboration with sON, demonstrates a proactive approach towards ensuring compliance with national standards.
The MoU outlines clear guidelines for member companies to adhere to, including the designation of employees to oversee compliance and provision of accommodation for representatives of the association within company premises to allow for effective monitoring. These measures are indicative of a collaborative effort between regulatory
bodies and industry stakeholders to uphold quality standards. In light of these developments, it is evident that the allegations 1leveled against SON by the IRSDEUN are unfounded and without merit. ‘ the statement further
The SON therefore urged stakeholders to desist from spreading misinformation that undermines the efforts towards quality assurance in the iron and steel industry, as it remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and promoting economic development while calling for constructive engagement and cooperation
from all stakeholders to address challenges effectively.