NECA’s Global Certification Limited (NGCL) has warned Nigerian businesses against obtaining ISO certification from unaccredited organisations.

It said that such certificates could fail verification and deny businesses valuable opportunities.

The acting managing director of NGCL, Noruwa Edokpolo, gave the warning during the unveiling of the NGCL Certification Pathway in Lagos on Wednesday.

Mr Edokpolo said many businesses had unknowingly obtained certificates from quack operators and were unable to enjoy the benefits of internationally recognised certification.

“There are businesses which got quack certification and are not getting the benefits of having real certification,” he said.

He said the major difference between NGCL’s certification and those issued by unaccredited operators was independent verification.

According to him, every organisation certified by NGCL is listed on a global database, enabling customers, procurement officers and regulators to verify the authenticity of the certificates.

Mr Edokpolo said that payment for certification would not automatically qualify any organisation for an ISO certificate.

“There are requirements that need to be met.

“Checks will be done and recommendations given, and it is the responsibility of the organisation to close all the gaps before it can be certified,” he said.

The acting managing director said that NGCL would not provide consultancy services to organisations it would certify in order to preserve the impartiality and credibility of the certification process.

He advised businesses seeking certification to ensure that any certificate presented to them could be independently verified before making payment.

According to him, internationally recognised certification has become increasingly important for organisations seeking access to government tenders, corporate supply chains and export opportunities.

NGCL is an indigenous certification body established by the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association. 

(NAN)