SON gives steel manufactures, distributors deadline on standards

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Not losing sight of the human and material resources the incessant cases of building collapse has caused the country, the Standards Organization of Nigeria(SON) has issued a 3months ultimatum to steel manufacturers and distributors on the need to clear off the markets substandard steel bars.

The Director General of SON, Mallam Farouk Salim made the pronouncement in a meeting with steel manufacturers and steel distributors.

Salim appealed to them to put their house in order as failure to comply will result in prosecutions and serious jail time for offenders.

The various cases of building collapse in the country have claimed hundreds of lives, which he said was a big blow on the nation and especially the construction industry where the steel sector belongs.

The consequences of these disasters according to him has raised concerns and the onus is always on SON to get to the root cause of the issue with the view to finding a lasting solution.

In moving forward, Salim emphasized that both the manufacturers and distributors have been given 2 months to form  associations to help regulate itself which it has no doubt would stand as an organised way of articulating industry challenges to ensure strict compliance and also root out amongst their members those engaging in inimical acts .

The DG said that the African Continental Free Trade Agreement which has legally taken effect from January this year means our borders are flunged open and any substandard products sold may be rejected thereby hindering our economic growth

He however reaffirmed SON’S mandate to foster trade and economic growth, not to impede, stating that SON would not allow any dubious business persons to destroy lives, property and scarce resources.

The Director General however made a passionate call on the steel industry to cooperate with SON so that wealth and value can be created without infractions. Stating,, “if you work with me I work with you but if you work against me the law will be upheld to the letter”

He warned that after the expiration of the 3months moratorium to the steel dealers, the agency will have no choice than to commence full scale enforcement, mopping of substandard steel in factories and markets, vowed that those found wanton would be prosecuted.