Held in Calabar and Port Harcourt, and in collaboration with the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), Cotecna organized two significant events, calling on Nigerian manufacturers and importers twice. These events aimed to foster quality imports into Nigeria, stimulate economic development, and reinforce Cotecna's presence in strategic regions.
RECAP OF THE SENSITIZATION DAY IN CALABAR
In partnership with the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), Cotecna sponsored a one-day sensitization program in Calabar on the 22nd of August, 2023, Cross River State. The event witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries, including Cross River State Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Abigail Duke; President of the Calabar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, David Etim; and Executive Secretary of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom branch, Mr. Khlinton Offong.
Under the theme of Facilitating Quality Imports into Nigeria for Economic Development, Mallam Farouk Salim, the Director General and Chief Executive of SON, highlighted the significance of the event in educating stakeholders about the SONCAP scheme. He emphasized the need to discuss challenges and find solutions, ensuring regulatory interventions for the benefit of consumers and Nigeria's economy.
While Mrs. Abigail Duke, the Cross River State Commissioner for Commerce, advocated for closer collaboration between SON, Cotecna, and the state government to facilitate exports, especially of agro and allied products. She urged Cotecna to open an office in Calabar to assist importers and exporters.
Finally, Mr. Ade Adediran, Cotecna's Country Manager, elaborated on Cotecna's mission, vision, and value-added services in the SONCAP scheme. He highlighted Cotecna's capacity to facilitate quality imports and exports and its role in promoting standards in Nigeria.
RECAP ON THE SENSITIZATION DAY IN PORT HARCOURT
In conjunction with the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), Cotecna organized another enlightening event at the Onne Oil & Gas Free Zones, on the 24th of August, 2023 in Port Harcourt. This event aimed to showcase the benefits of SON's regulatory practices to companies operating in the Onne Oil & Gas Free Zones and extend Cotecna's network to agents in the Free Zones.
The event garnered participation from manufacturers, importers, agents, and stakeholders such as the Nigeria Customs Service, Free Zones Authorities, Freight Forwarders, and security agencies.
The Director General of SON, Mallam Farouk Salim, reiterated the importance of the SONCAP scheme in regulating imports into Nigeria. He emphasized the need for stakeholders to collaborate and find solutions to challenges in the importation process.
Futhermore, Mr. Ade Adediran, Cotecna's Country Manager, discussed Cotecna's role in the SONCAP scheme and its long-standing partnership with SON. He encouraged participants to seek assistance from Cotecna's team in Port Harcourt for a smoother certification process.
Both events successfully educated stakeholders on the importance of quality imports for economic development, reinforced Cotecna's commitment to the SONCAP scheme, and promoted collaboration between government agencies, Cotecna, and the private sector.
For more information about SONCAP programme, download our exporter guide for free or contact us.