The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) issued certificates of Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) to 57 companies operating in Kano on Tuesday for meeting set production standards.

Most of the companies are producers of fertiliser, rice, and plastics, among others.

SON’s director-general (DG), Ifeanyi Chukwunonso-Okeke, said MANCAP has a Mandatory Product Scheme to ensure that all locally manufactured products in the country conform to relevant Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) before such products are presented for sale in the market or exported.

The DG, represented by the regional director, Albert Wilberforce, said MANCAP is saddled with the responsibility to ensure product quality, consumer safety, and market competitiveness, as well as to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and consumer confidence.

“Your unwavering commitment to adhering to the minimum requirements of the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) is not only commendable but also ensures the safety and quality of products in our markets.

“This is evidenced in your dedication to complying with the requirements of various Nigerian markets.

“Part of the benefit of the NIS is to promote quality assurance awareness and wealth creation through the reduction of waste in the form of standards.

“It also creates sanity, ensures the safety of products, builds confidence, and increases market share for producers and manufacturers.

“This will create sanity and ensure the safety of products offered for public consumption,’’ he said.

The DG congratulated the recipient for their quest for quality.

Mr Chukwunonso-Okeke urged companies to key into the MANCAP scheme for their growth and increase in market share.

“If you see something unwholesome, say something to the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON),” he said.

Responding on behalf of the recipients, Muhammed Abdullahi thanked the organisation for the certificates and promised to continue to add value to the product’s quality.

(NAN)