SON-NMI boost capacity to protect Nigerian roads, promote fair trade
The National Metrology Institute (NMI) of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has taken delivery of additional weight standards to enhance the ongoing calibration of various weighbridges in use in the Country.
A statement issued from the office of the Director General, SON, Mallam Farouk Salim disclosed that the investment is in line with its determination to ensure equity in business and control rapid wear and tear on Nigerian roads.
Salim said the increased capacity is in furtherance of implementing the Federal Government’s directive to ensure that all axle load weighbridges are properly monitored and maintained throughout the country by SON.
It will be recalled that the Government through the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing and the Transportation Ministry recently directed SON to commence calibration of all axle load weighbridges in Nigeria as part of measures to protect the roads from excessive loads by cargo trucks and trailers.
The NMI has since commenced the activity with the calibration of axle weighbridges at the APM Terminal, Apapa Ports in Lagos.
Director of the NMI, Engr. Bede Obayi disclosed that the increased capacity of the NMI is in fulfilment of the promise by Mallam Farouk Salim on his maiden visit to the Institute.
Obayi stated that the Institute has continued to receive requests for calibration services from public and private organizations across the Country, adding that it is capable of meeting all the demands.
He reiterated NMI’s preparedness to ensure the accuracy of all measuring instruments and equipment in Nigeria to facilitate fair trade and promote the increased competitiveness of Nigerian made products in view of the ongoing implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.
The Director, NMI urged manufacturers and other suppliers of goods and services to avail themselves of the Institute’s calibration services to satisfy the requirements of their customers, noting that businesses conducted on equity considerations have the potentials for continual improvement and longevity.
NMI as Nigeria’s custodian of primary reference standards for the calibration of all measurement instruments and equipment, according to him, represents the Country at the international Bureau for Weights and Measures (BIPM) conferences and conventions in order to be in tune with international best practices.
