Iron, steel distributors, major key players in dissemination of sub-standard products- SON
…Calls on Stakeholders to desist from misinformation that will undermine quality assurance
By Atiku Sarki://
Standard Organization of Nigeria, SON has confirmed that distributors of iron rod and steel are the major key players in the dissemination of sub-standard products in the market.
According to the organization, its investigations and stringent monitoring mechanisms have revealed a different reality and it is essential to set the record straight and address the inaccuracies presented by the Iron Rod and Steel Distributors Employers Union of Nigeria, IRSDEUN.
SON further confirmed that there have been instances where distributors exert too much pressure on manufacturers to produce substandard good for their selfish gains, thus perpetrating the cycle of Substandard Products in the market.
On the contrary, SON said that it has been proactive in implementing measures to ensure that only products meeting the required quality standards are allowed into the market.
Director, Public Relations Department of the Organisation, Mr. Foluso Bolaji in a press statement said SON efforts has led to significant strides in curbing the proliferation of Substandard Iron rods and steel products.
The statement read in part, “The attention of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON has been drawn to a press statement issued by the Iron Rod and Steel Distributors Employers Union of Nigeria, IRSDEUN expressing dissatisfaction with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON and alleging its ineffectiveness in curbing the circulation of substandard products in the Nigerian market. However, we find this narrative to be deeply flawed and misleading.
“Contrary to the claims made by the IRSDEUN, our investigations and stringent monitoring mechanisms have revealed a different reality. It is essential to set the record straight and address the inaccuracies presented by the Union.
“Firstly, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria vehemently rejects the assertion that SON has been lax in its regulatory duties. On the contrary, SON has been proactive in implementing measures to ensure that only products meeting the required quality standards are allowed into the market. Our efforts have led to significant strides in curbing the proliferation of substandard iron rods and steel products.
“Furthermore, the suggestion that iron and steel distributors are mere victims in this scenario is disingenuous. Credible findings indicate that distributors themselves have been implicated as key players in the dissemination of substandard products.
“There have been instances where distributors exert pressure on manufacturers to produce substandard goods for their selfish gains, thus perpetuating the cycle of substandard products in the market.
“Moreover, the Memorandum of Understanding, MOU signed by STEELMAN (an association of Steel Manufacturing companies who form a voluntary self regulatory team) in February, 2024, under the auspices of SON, underscores our commitment to quality assurance. The self-regulating system adopted by these companies, in collaboration with SON, demonstrates a proactive approach towards ensuring compliance with national standards.
“The MOU outlines clear guidelines for member companies to adhere to, including the designation of employees to oversee compliance and provision of accommodation for representatives of the association within company premises to allow for effective monitoring.
“These measures are indicative of a collaborative effort between regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders to uphold quality standards.
“In light of these developments, it is evident that the allegations leveled against SON by the IRSDEUN are unfounded and without merit”
SON also urged stakeholders to desist from spreading misinformation that undermines the efforts towards quality assurance in the iron and steel industry, stating that SON remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and promoting economic development.
