Chijioke Iremeka The Standard Organisation of Nigeria, says checkmating the influx of fake, substandard products is possible with its presence at the nation’s seaport. SON also stressed that commencing operation at one of the largest seaports in West Africa will ensure a more impactful, sustainable future for the country, This was stated by the Director General of the agency, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, during the 2024 Strategic Leadership Retreat held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital on Wednesday. PUNCH Healthwise reports that the SON was among seven out of the 14 agencies operating at Nigeria’s seaports that were asked to stop operations by the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority in June 2017.
This move was in line with the implementation of the ‘Executive Order’ signed by the former Vice President, Mr Yemi Osinbajo while in acting capacity during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. The directive was part of efforts to improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria. Affected by the order were the SON; the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control; and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, among others.
The then Managing Director of NPA, Ms Hadiza Bala-Usman, said the only agencies, apart from hers, permitted to operate at the ports were the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency; Department of State Security; Nigerian Customs Service; Nigeria Police; Nigerian Immigration Service; and Port Health. The DG of SON, while spea.
