Beyond the Warning: Understanding the Fight Against Counterstandard Goods in Nigeria
By Aderogba George
Abuja, Dec. 19, 2025
The Civil Society Organisation, Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI), has issued a critical call to action, urging Nigerian consumers to heighten their vigilance against the pervasive threat of counterfeit and substandard products flooding local markets. This is not merely a public service announcement but a clarion call based on verified intelligence from the regulatory frontlines.
Mr. Ofomhi Christopher, Executive Director of IADI, made this urgent appeal during a news conference in Abuja, framing it as a matter of public safety and economic integrity.
From Engagement to Accountability: A CSO’s Mandate in Action
Christopher clarified that the briefing was a direct outcome of IADI’s proactive engagement with the management of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). This move underscores a vital role of civil society: to bridge the information gap between regulatory agencies and the public. “Today’s briefing represents a civil responsibility,” Christopher stated, “to present verified information… in the interest of consumers, manufacturers, and the general public.”
Inside SON’s Enforcement Arsenal: What Was Revealed
The engagement with SON, led by Mr. Manji Lawal, Special Assistant (Strategy) to the Director-General, yielded specific, actionable insights into the agency’s current efforts:
- Decentralized Enforcement: SON has moved to a state-level decentralized framework to improve responsiveness and local oversight.
- Digital Transformation: The deployment of digital monitoring tools and real-time reporting platforms aims to enhance the supervision and accountability of field officers, a crucial step in combating internal corruption or laxity.
- Concrete Actions: SON disclosed the sealing of over 18 steel manufacturing companies producing non-compliant (and often dangerously weak) steel products—a major win for construction safety. They also presented prosecution records for cases involving adulterated engine oil, rebranded cables, adulterated sugar, and unhygienic sachet water.
- Product Authentication Mark (PAM): A collaborative initiative with NAFDAC and the FCCPC, PAM is designed to be a game-changer. It will allow consumers to verify a product’s authenticity independently, potentially via a QR code or scratch-off label.
The Systemic Hurdles: Why Counterfeits Persist
Perhaps most enlightening was SON’s candid disclosure of the systemic challenges that cripple full regulatory effectiveness:
- Absence at Ports: SON personnel are not present at Nigerian ports, creating a massive entry-point vulnerability for substandard imports.
- Porous Borders: Numerous unmanned borders facilitate the illicit inflow of goods, overwhelming enforcement capabilities.
- Resource Constraints: Manpower shortages and statutory obligations to remit revenue to the government treasury limit the agency’s operational flexibility and capacity for large-scale, sustained operations.
Your Role as a Consumer: From Vigilance to Action
The CSO’s warning is the starting point. Here’s how citizens can move from concern to concrete action:
- Embrace the PAM: Once fully operational, make checking the Product Authentication Mark a non-negotiable step for high-risk purchases like electrical goods, building materials, and food additives.
- Utilize Reporting Channels: SON highlighted toll-free complaint lines. Report suspicious products directly. Public pressure is a key driver of enforcement action.
- Practice Informed Skepticism: Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, poor packaging, spelling errors on labels, and unfamiliar brands dominating a market segment.
- Support Legitimate Businesses: Patronize reputable retailers and demand proof of certification for critical items like cables and steel rods.
A Balanced Verdict: Acknowledging Progress While Demanding More
In a notable move, IADI acknowledged the “measurable enforcement actions and institutional adjustments” achieved under the current SON leadership within a year. This objective recognition, based on documented outcomes, is essential for credible advocacy. It builds trust and opens doors for future constructive engagement.
Christopher reaffirmed IADI’s commitment to independent, critical, and transparent monitoring: “We will not fail to speak out where gaps exist, and where verifiable progress is evident.”
The Bottom Line: The fight against counterfeit products is a shared responsibility. While SON works to overcome systemic hurdles and enhance enforcement, the empowered, vigilant consumer—armed with information, skepticism, and a willingness to report—remains the most critical line of defense. This CSO briefing has not just sounded an alarm but has provided the public with the context and tools to become active participants in safeguarding their own safety and the nation’s economy.
(Source: NAN)
