The federal government says it has taken further steps to protect consumers and businesses against losses and inaccurate measurements.

Nura Rimi, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, said this during the Weights and Measures Department Quarterly Assembly in Abuja on Thursday.

According to Mr Rimi, this is done by enforcing the standard operating procedure of businesses.

He said the duties of the weights and measures department were essential and significant to the nation’s economy.

“The first priority area of President Bola Tinubu is to reform the economy to deliver sustained, inclusive growth. I was pleased when I was informed of the theme of this assembly: ‘Reviewing the Legal Metrology Standard Operating Procedures for a Sustainable Economic Growth’.

“Enforcement of legal metrology in virtually every sector of the economy does not just protect consumers but also assists Nigerian businesses to avoid unnecessary losses from inaccurate measurements, and accords them the badge of traceability that enables healthy competition both in local and international markets,” he said.

According to Mr Rimi, the federal government is making efforts to correct the conflicting sections of the Petroleum Industry Act which is causing challenges in executing duties in the oil and gas sector.

He also reiterated the federal government’s plan to upgrade the weight and measurement department into an agency to enable it to achieve its mandate better.

The permanent secretary charged the participants to achieve robust and progressive roadmaps.

The Weights and Measures Department director, Olajide Bamidele, urged the participants to reflect on their mandate, be diligent and uphold professionalism.

“The theme we have chosen underscores the vital role that legal metrology plays in shaping the economic landscape of Nigeria.

“By adhering to rigorous standard operating procedures, we will not only safeguard the interests of consumers and businesses but also lay the foundation for a thriving and equitable economy.

“Our economy, like any other, is dynamic and constantly evolving. It is also necessary that our legal metrology practices evolve,” he said.

He said there was a need to overcome challenges and achieve set goals.

He added, “We must be proactive in our approach to reviewing and refining our standard operating procedures, ensuring that they are not only compliant with current regulations but are also responsive enough to adapt to emerging trends.

“This adaptability is key to fostering an environment where businesses can flourish, consumers can trust, and the economy can thrive.”

(NAN)