The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on the organized private sector to consistently demand quality products and services from the public sector in order to foster a culture of quality across the country.
Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, highlighted the importance of quality during a workshop on the Sustainable Provision of Metrology Services held in Lagos.
He emphasized that a strong demand for quality would enhance Nigeria’s ability to trade effectively on an international level, particularly in light of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) and the government’s economic diversification plans.
Represented by Dr. Maurice Mbaeri, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the SGF, Akume pointed out that a more efficient National Quality Infrastructure, facilitated by the Nigerian National Quality Policy, would lead to increased non-oil exports, improved foreign exchange earnings, job creation, and overall economic growth.
He urged all stakeholders to actively support the implementation of the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol, following Nigeria’s recognition as the Digital Trade Champion for Africa at the recent African Union Assembly.
Osita Aboloma, Executive Chairman of the National Quality Council (NQC), reinforced the Council’s commitment to enhancing the National Quality Infrastructure, which would improve the competitiveness of Nigerian products and services.
He remarked that the NQC’s efforts would help increase non-oil exports and reduce the country’s export rejects.
Support from the United Kingdom was acknowledged, particularly about the Standards Partnership Programme (SPP), aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s quality infrastructure.
Dr. Simeon Umukoro from the UK Department for Business and Trade reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic initiatives, highlighting that improved quality infrastructure would create new opportunities for innovation and competitiveness.
The partnership aims to elevate Nigeria’s export capacity, attract investment, and enhance trade efficiency in alignment with global standards and practices.