Nigeria’s export certification scheme set to strengthen trade, enhance product credibility, and unlock new global markets
In a renewed push to expand the nation’s global trade footprint, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has officially launched a transformative initiative under its flagship Nigeria’s export certification scheme, designed to enhance the international competitiveness of locally made products and drive economic diversification.
Speaking during the 2025 World Standards Day celebration in Lagos, the Director-General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, reaffirmed the organisation’s unwavering commitment to improving Nigeria’s trade capacity through the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Export Certification Programme (SONEXCAP).
According to Okeke, the Nigeria’s export certification scheme aims to ensure that products manufactured in the country meet the quality benchmarks required in global markets.
He noted that the scheme provides a structured pathway for exporters to comply with international standards, thereby enabling Nigerian goods to compete favourably under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework and beyond.
“SONEXCAP is not merely a certification initiative — it’s a strategic gateway for expanding Nigeria’s export frontiers,” Okeke stated.
“Once certified, Nigerian products are instantly recognised for quality and safety across African and global markets.”
SONEXCAP: Strengthening Confidence in Nigerian-Made Products
The Nigeria’s export certification scheme serves as a powerful tool for restoring global confidence in products made in Nigeria.
Okeke emphasised that the initiative would eliminate the longstanding barriers that limit exporters’ access to foreign markets.
He added that the certification process enhances credibility, allowing Nigerian producers to build trust with importers and consumers worldwide.
“When a product bears the SON mark of quality, it signals that Nigeria is ready to compete at the highest international level,” he said.
“Our vision is to make SONEXCAP the gold standard for export credibility in Africa.”
In addition to trade expansion, Okeke stressed that the scheme aligns with the federal government’s economic diversification agenda by encouraging industrial growth, job creation, and wealth generation through increased export activities.
Collaboration for Sustainable Trade Development
Highlighting this year’s World Standards Day theme, “Shared Vision for a Better World: Spotlight on Sustainable Development Goal 17,” Okeke called for greater collaboration among government agencies, private sector players, academia, and civil society.
He noted that Nigeria’s export certification scheme thrives on partnerships that strengthen the national quality infrastructure and promote sustainable industrialisation.
“No nation can achieve its development goals in isolation,” he said.
“Our collective effort will determine how far Nigeria can go in achieving food security, energy transition, and export growth.”
According to him, conformity assessment and trade facilitation depend on strong institutional cooperation and mutual trust among stakeholders.
SON, he said, has continued to work closely with international partners to build capacity for product testing, inspection, and certification.
This collaboration not only guarantees product quality but also helps protect consumers, promote local industries, and position Nigeria as a reliable trade partner.
Empowering SMEs through Simplified Certification
A major highlight of the Nigeria’s export certification scheme is its focus on empowering small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs). Okeke explained that SON has streamlined the certification process to make it easier for smaller manufacturers to access export opportunities.
He said the organisation provides technical assistance, capacity-building programmes, and market access support to help SMEs meet global compliance requirements.
“SONEXCAP is inclusive. We want every serious entrepreneur — no matter the size of their operation — to participate in global trade,” Okeke explained.
“This is how we create sustainable jobs and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base.”
The SON chief further revealed that the organisation has upgraded its laboratories and testing facilities to meet international accreditation standards. This enhancement, he said, will ensure that every certified product is tested against rigorous international benchmarks.
Industry Commends SON’s Commitment
Reacting to the launch, the Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, lauded SON for its proactive steps toward improving the nation’s export readiness through Nigeria’s export certification scheme.
Represented by Mr. Joseph Imoleke, Ajayi-Kadir described Dr. Okeke as a forward-thinking leader who listens to industry players and fosters collaboration.
“SON’s partnership with manufacturers is a step in the right direction. With this certification scheme, we can proudly say Nigerian goods will no longer be rejected abroad,” he said.
He added that the initiative will help Nigeria maximise the benefits of the AfCFTA and contribute to achieving sustainable industrial growth.
A Bold Step Toward Economic Diversification
As Nigeria intensifies efforts to diversify its economy away from crude oil dependence, Nigeria’s export certification scheme emerges as a cornerstone policy for expanding the non-oil export sector.
By enforcing quality assurance, promoting product excellence, and simplifying access to international markets, SON is positioning Nigeria as a strong player in regional and global trade.
“This programme is our statement of confidence in the excellence and potential of the Nigerian industry,” Okeke concluded.
“With SONEXCAP, the world will recognise the value, quality, and reliability of made-in-Nigeria products.”
The new export certification drive is not just a compliance mechanism — it’s a transformative economic strategy designed to unlock the full potential of Nigerian manufacturers, stimulate investment, and build a more resilient export economy.
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