S. O. N. SEIZES FAKE AND COUNTERFEIT GOODS WORTH OVER N20BN. (PHOTO).

 SON Seizes Fake and Counterfeit Goods Worth Over N20bn

The Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) has confiscated counterfeit and substandard products valued at over N20 billion, according to its Director General, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke.  

Speaking at a sensitization campaign for maritime stakeholders on Monday, Dr. Okeke—represented by Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Talatu Ethan—outlined the agency’s efforts to combat the proliferation of fake products in key sectors, including LPG gas cylinders, tires, cables, aluminum roofing sheets, and lubricants.  

“In the lubricants sub-sector, we have launched a ‘name and shame’ initiative targeting substandard manufacturers, importers, and dealers following thorough verification exercises,” he stated.  

Dr. Okeke revealed that the seized products, many of which posed serious health and safety risks, had been publicly destroyed across SON-designated dumpsites nationwide. The agency has also intensified legal actions against offenders under the SON Act of 2015.  

He called on maritime operators and other industry stakeholders to collaborate in curbing the influx of substandard goods, warning that such products endanger lives, reduce revenue, destroy jobs, and weaken local industries.  

Additionally, the SON chief highlighted the agency’s digitalization initiatives aimed at improving trade facilitation and reducing corruption. He encouraged stakeholders to adopt SON’s e-certificates and automated services, which are now integrated into the Nigeria Integrated Customs Services (NICIS) system.  

“Our goal is to make Nigeria’s market globally competitive. By embracing digitized processes and ensuring compliance with international standards, we can enhance trade facilitation and improve the ease of doing business,” Dr. Okeke concluded.

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