By Progress Godfrey

ABUJA – Director General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, has said accurate measurement remains central to Nigeria’s drive for industrial growth and global competitiveness.

Speaking in Abuja to commemorate the 2026 World Metrology Day on Wednesday, Okeke said reliable data and measurement systems are critical for effective policymaking, business decisions and national development.

He noted that metrology plays a vital role across sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, energy and trade, stressing that trust in systems depends on confidence in measurements.

Okeke added that for Nigeria to compete globally, its products and services must meet international standards, backed by strong quality assurance and measurement systems.

“In today’s rapidly evolving world, effective policymaking depends heavily on reliable data, accurate measurements, and verifiable standards. Accurate measurement is therefore not merely a technical necessity; it is a strategic economic tool that supports innovation, facilitates trade, enhances consumer confidence, and attracts investment,” he said.

He urged industries to invest in calibration systems, quality control and conformity assessment processes to improve productivity and competitiveness.

Chairman of the Standards Council, SON, Yahuza Ado Inuwa, said measurement goes beyond technical processes, touching economic growth, public trust and national development.

“Today’s celebration therefore goes beyond technical discussions about measurements. It is about national development, economic credibility, industrial growth, and public trust.”

“Building globally competitive industries requires more than production capacity. It requires consistency, precision, traceability, and compliance with internationally accepted standards.”

He said the council would continue to support investments in laboratories, infrastructure and capacity building to strengthen Nigeria’s quality ecosystem and boost industrial performance.