By Merit Ibe
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has issued a stern warning to manufacturers and distributors involved in the trade of substandard steel, declaring its intention to prosecute offenders to safeguard the nation’s construction integrity.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, Enebi Onuchenyo, Chairman of SON’s Special Task Force, highlighted the alarming rise in complaints regarding the quality of steel and iron rods circulating in the Nigerian market. Distributors have voiced concerns, citing widespread instances of substandard products that jeopardize structural safety.
“There are troubling claims about substandard iron rods being sold, which prompted us to convene this meeting with manufacturers and distributors,” Onuchenyo said. “Both parties have provided us with vital information that will assist in identifying and apprehending those behind these unscrupulous activities.”
Onuchenyo did not mince words about the consequences for those caught in this illegal trade. “Anyone found dealing in substandard steel will be prosecuted, and there will be no leniency,” he emphasized. “Manufacturers must ensure the production of only high-quality goods, and distributors must reject any substandard products. The next phase in our enforcement campaign will be swift legal action.”
This crackdown is part of SON’s broader strategy to close the gap between manufacturers and distributors, ensuring that only top-quality materials enter the market. Onuchenyo urged manufacturers to adopt rigorous self-regulation practices, which are globally recognized as the most effective form of quality control. “If manufacturers commit to stringent self-monitoring, it will fortify the sector and contribute positively to the economy,” he stated.
SON has given stakeholders a seven-day deadline to provide detailed information about their suppliers and distributors, which will support the agency’s fight against the influx of substandard goods. “Our organization is tasked with the critical role of ensuring that all materials meet the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS),” Onuchenyo continued.
“We will conduct thorough market surveillance and will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute both manufacturers and distributors found guilty of peddling substandard products.”
Adding to the discourse, Felix Oba-Okogie, Coordinator of the Steel Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Group, expressed frustration over unfounded accusations against local manufacturers. “These allegations, particularly those not substantiated by SON, are baseless and damaging,” Oba-Okogie remarked. “Today’s meeting has clarified the situation, reaffirming that such allegations not only tarnish the reputation of manufacturers but also unjustly smear SON.”
Oba-Okogie called on SON to intensify its efforts against those responsible for spreading false claims and urged all stakeholders to unite in protecting the integrity of the steel industry. “Steel production is crucial to our economy, ranking high in employment and industrial development. We must protect this sector from the harmful effects of substandard products.”
Chukwudi Umeh, a member of the Iron Dealers Association of Nigeria, Anambra State chapter, praised SON’s efforts in regulating the industry and pledged the association’s full support. He emphasized the importance of manufacturers closely identifying their customers to facilitate the tracking of products that fail to meet standards. “Manufacturers should know who they are selling to, so that if any issue arises, SON can easily trace the source,” Umeh advised.
He also recommended that SON conduct comprehensive market research and enforcement actions, including surprise inspections of factories and markets, to root out substandard products. “SON must escalate their enforcement efforts, visiting sales sites to interrogate dealers and ensure that no substandard products are being distributed,” he urged.
In closing, the consensus among stakeholders was clear: the fight against substandard steel products must be relentless, with all parties committed to upholding the highest standards in the Nigerian steel industry. SON’s resolve to prosecute offenders marks a decisive step towards restoring trust and safety in the nation’s construction sector.