Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) destroys low quality tyres, steel doors, wires worth billions in Lagos

Thursday, May 1, 2025 - The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) destroyed a cache of imported substandard tyres, steel doors, and spark plugs, intercepted at the point of entry into the country. 

The items, valued at billions of naira, were deemed unfit for use. 

The destruction exercise, which took place yesterday, April 29, in Lagos, was attended by officials from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, importers, trade associations, and law enforcement partners. 

Speaking at the event, the Director-General and Chief Executive of SON, Dr Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, said the substandard products posed significant threats to public safety and national security. 

Okeke, represented by his Special Assistant for Strategic Support, Manji Pious Lawan, noted that the items were seized by SON enforcement teams in collaboration with other agencies for failing to meet the minimum safety and quality standards required in Nigeria. He added that the materials presented serious risks to lives, property, and the nation’s economic stability. 

Okeke revealed that several suspects had been arrested and prosecuted, with some cases still pending in court. He described the exercise as a significant step in the agency’s ongoing efforts to rid the Nigerian market of dangerous and uncertified goods and a move to protect consumers. 

“Substandard tyres can cause devastating accidents on our roads, unsafe steel doors compromise the security of our homes and businesses, and faulty spark plugs can lead to engine failures. What we are doing today is not just symbolic; it is a practical demonstration of SON’s resolve to protect Nigerian lives and ensure consumer safety,” he stated. 

Okeke emphasised that the action aligns with the organisation’s mandate under the SON Act No. 14 of 2015, which empowers the agency to enforce quality standards and remove dangerous products from circulation. 

He assured that SON would not relent in its efforts, pledging to continue identifying, seizing, and destroying substandard products while holding those responsible accountable. 

Okeke warned manufacturers, importers, and traders that non-compliance with Nigeria’s quality standards would not be tolerated.