Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, the recently appointed Director General/Chief Executive of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), is enthusiastic about driving rapid industrial and economic development in Nigeria. He has outlined an extensive plan in line with the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s locally-oriented, inclusive growth economy.
According to the report, Dr. Okeke emphasized the need for continuity in governance and an unwavering commitment to progress during his inauguration in Abuja.His action plan is geared toward fostering the rapid economic and industrial growth of Nigeria.
Key areas of focus include a nationwide campaign against sub-standard products, supporting the growth and sustainability of Micro, Small, and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs), the development and optimal utilization of SON’s metrology services and test laboratories nationwide, as well as fostering stakeholder engagement and collaboration. Other priorities encompass enhancing staff welfare and development, bolstering local product competitiveness in the African Common Market, promoting exports and trade, and intensifying standardization efforts nationwide.
Dr. Okeke, a chartered accountant, was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on October 13, 2023, to lead SON, a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. His responsibilities include enforcing standards and quality assurance, representing the agency and Nigeria on standardization and quality control matters both domestically and internationally, and advising the SON Governing Council on national policies and programs related to standardization, product quality, and metrology.
Under his leadership, SON is set to renew its commitment to eradicating sub-standard and counterfeit products, recognizing the detrimental impact they have on the economy and public safety.
The SON boss intends to intensify the campaign, involving increased seizures, testing, public destruction of substandard goods, and the arrest and prosecution of offenders.
In alignment with the government’s home-grown economy agenda, SON will double its efforts to foster the development, growth, and sustainability of MSMEs across Nigeria, with a particular emphasis on the manufacturing sector.
Dr. Okeke sees standardization as the key to revitalizing Nigeria’s industries and attracting local and foreign investments, which, in turn, will create jobs and stimulate the market for certified Made-in-Nigeria products.To achieve these goals, the agency will set up SMEs hubs and clinics throughout the country, working closely with industry operators.
Dr. Okeke is determined to make Nigeria an investment hub in Sub-Saharan Africa, promoting the nation’s growth and global economic influence, akin to the Asian Tigers.Dr. Okeke also aims to ensure that African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) becomes a boon for Nigeria, with local products attaining acceptance and competitiveness in regional and global markets.
He intends to emphasize the benefits of adherence to standards, raising public awareness and education on the value of standards and standardization.
Furthermore, Dr. Okeke plans to focus on improving staff welfare and development, conducting regular training to enhance staff capacities and competencies, ultimately leading to increased performance and productivity.
His extensive experience spanning over 18 years in governmental and private circles equips him to lead SON toward becoming a prominent figure among National Standards Bodies and International Standards Bodies worldwide.
With a Ph.D. in Accountancy and a wealth of academic and professional qualifications, Dr. Okeke is poised to drive SON’s transformation and promote Nigeria’s industrial and economic advancement.