The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has presented the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) certificate to 15 companies in Enugu State.

The companies that got the certificates include JOMAP Consul, Aqua Rapha Investment, De-Caspian Construction, NK-JOE Enterprises, Salome Angel Coy Ltd., and Carlzy and Sharon Paints & Chemical Company.

SON’s director general, Ifeanyi Okeke, presented the certificates in Enugu on Thursday and said MANCAP is a mandatory product certification scheme to ensure manufacturers deliver quality goods and services.

Mr Okeke, represented by Chukwuma Aharanwa, director of SON, South-East Regional Operation, said the organisation would continue to undertake periodic factory inspections, sampling and laboratory testing of products following the certification.

“This is to ensure that the products certified today continue to meet the requirements of the relevant standards that have earned your establishments these certifications.

“The products are to be revalidated every three years and it is important that you note that the certificates issued today shall be withdrawn or suspended if the products fail to meet the minimum requirements.

“This goes for both revalidating products and newly certified company products,” he said.

The director general said the certification enhances business growth and maximisation, as well as the production of excellent quality products and healthy competition.

Mr Okeke revealed that to meet micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at their point of standardisation needs, the SON had initiated a scheme known as the SON Product Identification Scheme (SONPIS).

SONPIS certification is mapped out to address key challenges MSMEs face, such as access to relevant standards and insufficient testing facilities, and to strengthen their capacity to comply with the MANCAP.

“Through mentorship, fostering market-driven standards and encouraging voluntary compliance, SONPIS Certification is the only way by which MSMEs can explore and enjoy opportunities of the free trade agreement,” he added.

One of the MANCAP certificate recipients, Nkiruka Nnamani, said she would upgrade all materials used in her factory to international standards.

(NAN)