The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has emphasized the crucial role of clean energy in driving industrial growth, innovation, job creation, and improving the quality of life. At a market sensitization programme in Abuja to mark World Standards Day, SON's Director General, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, stated that standards are essential in ensuring that technologies and products supporting the transition to clean energy are safe, efficient, reliable, and fit for purpose.
Dr. Okeke highlighted that standards are not just technical requirements, but instruments for building trust, protecting consumers, supporting businesses, facilitating trade, and strengthening national development. He noted that the theme of this year's World Standards Day, "Shared Vision for a Better World," focuses on Sustainable Development Goal Seven, which aims to provide affordable and clean energy. SON has been actively involved in developing and adopting standards across critical sectors, including energy management, transportation, food safety, and healthcare.
SON has made significant progress in developing standards to support Nigeria's energy transition, including standards for compressed natural gas (CNG). Dr. Okeke explained that the organization has approved 80 standards in 2024, covering areas such as CNG conversion kits, electrical connections, vehicle diagnostics, roadworthiness, and vehicle safety. These standards are critical in ensuring the safe and reliable use of CNG as an alternative fuel.
The Director General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Dr. John Aseni, also spoke at the event, emphasizing that standards go beyond rules and technical specifications. He urged manufacturers, service providers, businesses, and consumers to uphold established standards, adopt ethical practices, and reject shortcuts that compromise quality and integrity.
Abuja Market Management Limited commended SON for its vision for cleaner and cheaper energy, assuring that businesses are already embracing clean energy for their operations. The organization's representative, Innocent Ameachi, expressed support for SON's efforts to promote clean energy and standards.
Dr. Okeke further explained that SON's commitment to Nigeria's energy transition is demonstrated by its development and approval of standards for CNG. He emphasized that these standards are essential in ensuring that the employment of CNG as an alternative fuel is undertaken safely and reliably.
The event was part of SON's efforts to promote awareness and adoption of standards in Nigeria. The organization continues to play a critical role in supporting the country's industrial growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
Key points
- Standards are essential for ensuring that clean energy technologies and products are safe, efficient, reliable, and fit for purpose.
- SON has developed and approved standards for compressed natural gas (CNG) to support Nigeria's energy transition.
- The organization has approved 80 standards in 2024, covering areas such as CNG conversion kits, electrical connections, and vehicle safety.
