…Issues 6-month compliance deadline
By Merit Ibe
To ensure confidence and enhance the competitiveness of Made-in-Nigeria products on the global stage, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has rebranded its Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) logo and issued a six-month deadline for manufacturers and other businesses to comply with the agency’s directive.
The Director-General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, explained yesterday during the unveiling that the agency’s new logo will add value to its mandate of creating an enabling environment and instilling confidence in consumers, manufacturers, exporters, importers, and all genuine operators in various segments of the nation’s economy.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir, proposed an extension of the deadline, saying the six-month grace period was insufficient for manufacturers.
The SON helmsman noted that the rebranding of the MANCAP logo is not merely a change of aesthetics but represents a renewed dedication to quality assurance and a proactive response to evolving challenges confronting the agency, including the pressing need to combat counterfeiting and streamline processes for manufacturers.
He said the initiative is of paramount importance in promoting a level playing field for manufacturers, adding that one of his key focus areas is to improve services through technology and automation.
“We are also committed to safeguarding the interests of our esteemed consumers and ultimately enhancing the competitiveness of Nigerian products on the global stage.
“This rebranding initiative is also strategically aligned with our broader national objective of enhancing the visibility and recognition of quality-certified Nigerian products, both within our domestic market and in the international arena.”
Okeke disclosed that the agency has given a grace period of six months for full implementation of the new logo, emphasizing its unwavering commitment to upholding quality and standards within the Nigerian manufacturing sector.
“As you are aware, MANCAP, established in 2006 under the auspices of SON, serves as a critical product certification scheme.
“Its mandate is to ensure that all locally manufactured products adhere strictly to the relevant Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) before they are released for sale or export.
“In today’s dynamic and increasingly competitive global marketplace, where the specter of substandard products looms, continued adaptation and innovation are not merely desirable—they are essential.”
Okeke said the new logo encapsulates the agency’s core values and mission. “Its contemporary design reflects progress and innovation, while the prominent placement of the name reinforces our authority and steadfast commitment to maintaining the highest standards. This new logo will serve as a veritable symbol of quality, providing assurance to consumers regarding the excellence of products bearing its mark.”
For manufacturers, he noted that the new MANCAP logo represents a badge of honor, signifying compliance with quality benchmarks and a dedication to excellence. “It will undoubtedly enhance the quality of manufactured products in a more valuable manner, with brand recognition fostering consumer confidence.”
“For our consumers, it offers assurance and peace of mind, knowing that the products they purchase are safe and reliable.”
He reiterated that one of his key focus areas is improving services through technology and automation.
On his part, the Director-General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, who made a presentation on The Role of Branding in Standardisation and Quality Assurance, emphasized the need to deepen confidence in Nigerian standards.
“This is essential for us to proudly demonstrate that our products meet quality standards, especially as we navigate global geopolitics, non-tariff barriers, and technical barriers to trade.
“I believe SON’s decision to rebrand is aimed at reinforcing credibility by ensuring we carry a logo that truly reflects the quality of our products. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade.”
He emphasized the need for Nigerians to consume what is produced in Africa. “It is crucial that we streamline our standardization processes to ensure they are acceptable across the continent.”
On the logo issue, the MAN DG expects that SON and MAN will jointly agree on the moratorium period.
“This is because it’s in our mutual interest to do so. But I want to assure my brother, the DG, that we are not going to play pranks.
“We are not going to delay the process. We just want to ensure there is no wastage.
“I don’t think all sectors face the same challenges, but I trust my brother has the capacity to accommodate reasonable concerns while ensuring we do not cause unnecessary delays.”
Head of MANCAP, Akinware Ayodele, noted that the new logo represents a renewed commitment to excellence and a fresh perspective on the agency’s mission.
“It symbolizes our dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.
“This launch is not just about unveiling a new logo—it’s about reaffirming our values and principles, our passion for quality, our commitment to excellence, and our determination to make a positive impact on the lives of Nigerians.”