The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has called on manufacturers to steer clear of unqualified calibration service providers, warning that substandard practices could undermine product quality and erode consumer trust.
The warning was issued by SON’s Director General, during an event in Lagos commemorating the 2025 World Metrology Day. This year’s theme, “Measurements for all Times, for all People,” underscores the essential role of accurate measurement in national development and economic growth.
He stated that SON is working closely with relevant bodies to phase out unqualified calibration operators and ensure that Nigerian businesses, particularly manufacturers, have access to trusted and certified services that deliver real value.
As part of broader efforts to strengthen industrial standards, SON has decentralised calibration services to key economic zones in Lagos, Kano, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. This regional spread is expected to ease access for businesses, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and reduce reliance on unverified sources.
To extend its reach, SON has also launched mobile or grassroots calibration services aimed at bringing certified measurement tools directly to businesses operating in remote and underserved areas. This innovation, he explained, is designed to bridge service gaps, support SMEs, and drive inclusive economic development.
Highlighting SON’s mandate, the Director General explained that metrology and standardisation are critical to improving productivity, reducing waste, protecting the environment, and enabling trade through consistent product quality. According to him, SON is focused on establishing a robust national metrology infrastructure in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda and Nigeria First Policy.
He added that developing an accredited national metrology facility would reduce capital flight by allowing testing and calibration laboratories to obtain traceable measurement services within Nigeria. This would also enhance the credibility of Nigerian exports, protect public health, and promote environmental safety.
Accurate measurements, he said, also reduce transaction costs and disputes in industry and commerce by ensuring clarity, precision, and consistency in production and trade.
In support of SON’s drive, the Nigeria Customs Service emphasised the operational importance of reliable measurements in their daily activities. Representing the Comptroller General, the Zone A Commander, said accurate measurements were essential to customs operations—from detecting hidden contraband and calculating duties to verifying the content of imported goods.
He noted that measurement standards are critical to revenue collection, trade facilitation, and national security, describing them as “the invisible infrastructure upon which visible trade flows.” He stressed that without them, the integrity of trade processes would be compromised.
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) also pledged to collaborate with SON to promote standardisation and accurate calibration across the manufacturing sector. The association emphasised that ensuring measurement precision would improve consumer trust and boost the competitiveness of locally made products in domestic and international markets.
Across all sectors, the event highlighted the foundational role of metrology in economic advancement, national quality infrastructure, and Nigeria’s industrialisation journey.
