By Nkechi Eze
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) took centre stage in celebrating the 2025 World Metrology Day on May 20, with a resolute reaffirmation of the role of precise measurements in driving national development. The event, held in Lagos under the global theme “Measurements for all time, for all people,” also marked the 150th anniversary of the Metre Convention, spotlighting metrology’s enduring relevance.
Speaking at the event, Director General and Chief Executive of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, described measurement accuracy as the unseen but essential force behind a nation’s industrial and economic progress. “Measurement is the language of science, trade, safety, and productivity. Without accurate data, there can be no meaningful development or competitiveness,” he stated.
Dr. Okeke also revealed strategic initiatives by SON to decentralize calibration services across the country through the establishment of new metrology centres in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Abuja. “This move will make calibration services more accessible to businesses, foster innovation, and enhance Nigeria’s standing in the global market,” he explained.
Goodwill messages from regulatory and industry partners underscored the multi-sectoral impact of metrology. Representing the Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadiri, was Mrs. Victoria Onuoha who described metrology as “fundamental to quality assurance in local production.” ACG Charles Obi, standing in for the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, CGC. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized how precise measurements reduce trade disputes and facilitate seamless customs operations.
The Director General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Dr. Innocent Bariase Barikor, represented by Dr. Jonathen Sylvanus, highlighted the environmental significance of metrology, while Mr. Awoyemi of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority reiterated its critical importance to road safety and urban transport planning.
Delivering the keynote lecture, guest speaker Dr. Taofeek Otunla of the University of Ibadan noted, “The future depends on how well we can measure. From oil rigs to open markets, the confidence of stakeholders is built on the reliability of data. Even our informal sector thrives when measurements are standardized.”
Head of the National Metrology Institute (NMI), Dr. Samuel Ayuba, provided insights into SON’s expanding technical capacity. He announced that SON’s certified spectrometers and traceable calibration capabilities are now linked to the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) to ensure end-to-end measurement credibility. “We are promoting a culture of traceable, credible, and globally benchmarked measurement practices,” he said.
He urged more robust participation from both public and private sectors, revealing that collaborations with agencies such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) are already underway.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of MANCAP certificates to manufacturers whose products met stringent standards an enduring testament to SON’s pledge to elevate quality benchmarks across Nigerian industries.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Talatu Ethan, Director of Corporate Affairs, called on Nigerians to stay connected with SON via social media platforms for real-time updates and to report any sightings of substandard products. “We are building a measurement-conscious society one that values precision as a path to safety and prosperity,” she said.
As the curtains fell on the 2025 World Metrology Day celebrations, SON reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a future where accurate measurements lay the groundwork for innovation, trust, and sustainable development.
