The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has unveiled a new global fraud control framework aimed at tackling rising financial crimes across the country’s public and private sectors.

The Director-General and Chief Executive of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, announced the adoption and promotion of ISO 37003:2025 — an international standard on Fraud Control Management Systems — at a Stakeholder Engagement Forum held in Lagos.

According to Okeke, the new standard provides organisations with a structured management systems approach to prevent, detect, and respond to fraud risks. He explained that ISO 37003:2025 moves beyond traditional compliance models by embedding fraud prevention mechanisms into governance, operational processes, and risk management frameworks.

“Fraud undermines trust, weakens institutions, and threatens sustainable development,” Okeke said. “ISO 37003 offers a practical and scalable framework that enables organisations to strengthen internal controls and build resilience against financial crimes.”

Fraud Cases Surge 350%

Chairman of the SON National Technical Committee on Governance of Organisations, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, disclosed that reported fraud cases increased by 350 percent between 2022 and 2024. He said the alarming rise highlights the urgent need for proactive and structured fraud risk management systems.

Osunbor noted that ISO 37003 equips organisations with tools to systematically identify fraud risks, establish preventive controls, implement reporting mechanisms, and promote continuous improvement.

He added that the standard aligns with global best practices and complements existing regulatory and anti-corruption frameworks. By institutionalising fraud risk management, organisations can shift from reactive responses to preventive strategies.

Broad Sector Applicability

SON stated that the fraud control standard is applicable to organisations of all sizes and sectors. This includes government agencies, private corporations, small and medium enterprises, and non-profit entities.

Adoption of ISO 37003:2025, according to the agency, is designed to be proportionate to each organisation’s size, structure, and risk profile.

The stakeholder forum brought together representatives from the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, and the British Standards Institution.

Participants discussed practical implementation strategies, institutional capacity building, and the need for wider adoption across industries.

Strengthening Transparency and Governance

SON emphasised that promoting ISO 37003 forms part of Nigeria’s broader commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.

The agency said encouraging organisations to adopt internationally recognised management system standards would strengthen public trust and improve the country’s overall risk management culture.

As financial crimes continue to evolve, SON maintains that structured fraud control systems are essential for safeguarding economic stability and reinforcing institutional integrity.

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The Oyo State Government has partnered with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to eliminate substandard steel and iron rods blamed for frequent building collapses.

Commissioner for Investment, Trade, and Industry, Adeniyi Adebisi, said the move aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s focus on enforcing building and engineering standards. He praised SON for its role in promoting product quality and urged the agency to establish a laboratory complex in Oyo to boost industrial growth.

SON’s representative, Manji Pius, revealed that over 85% of building collapses in Nigeria stem from low-quality steel materials. He called for Oyo’s support in providing land for a regional SON facility in Ibadan to enhance monitoring and compliance.

The collaboration aims to improve public safety, strengthen product standards, and position Oyo as a hub for quality manufacturing and trade in the South-West.

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The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has launched its export certification programme, SONEXCAP, to help Nigerian products meet global standards and gain wider acceptance under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speaking at the 2025 World Standards Day in Lagos, SON Director-General, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, said the scheme aims to strengthen trade capacity, promote industrial growth, and improve product competitiveness.

“SONEXCAP builds confidence in Nigerian-made goods and opens doors to regional and global markets,” Okeke said.

He called for collaboration among government, the private sector, and civil society to drive export growth and sustainable development. Okeke added that SON is working with international partners to enhance testing, certification, and consumer protection.

The DG of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, praised SON for supporting manufacturers and fostering trade-friendly policies.

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Registered builders and industry stakeholders are calling for stricter enforcement of building codes and planning laws across Nigeria.

The Chairman of the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), Dr. Samson Opaluwah, emphasized that robust legal frameworks and professional oversight are essential to curb the alarming rise in building collapses. He urged governors to enact and enforce planning laws to ensure structures meet safety and quality standards.

Similarly, the Director General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, attributed frequent structural failures to non-adherence to codes, substandard materials, and weak enforcement. He called for collective action from contractors, suppliers, and professionals to prioritize safety and quality in construction.

Experts warn that the failure to implement the National Building Code—even after being approved years ago continues to undermine investor confidence. Unsafe construction practices persist, driving developers and insurers away from the sector.

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This warning came during a recent stakeholder forum in Lagos. The event was titled “Boosting the Building Industry Value Chain with Standard Roofing Sheets.” Industry leaders, government officials, and building professionals attended.

Theresa Ojomo, Director of SON Lagos Office, explained that many local manufacturers and installers are ignoring the Nigerian Industrial Standards. She said roofing sheets must meet strict rules for thickness, strength, and chemical composition. Painted and stone-coated sheets are also expected to follow these guidelines.

Ojomo warned that without proper coating, roofing sheets break down quickly. Rain and weather exposure can lead to leaks, roof collapse, and chemical pollution. In some cases, these chemicals can get into water supplies.

SON recently destroyed a batch of imported roofing sheets that failed quality checks. These products did not meet the required thickness or chemical composition.

Cletus Igbojionu from the Association of Secondary Aluminium Producers of Nigeria also spoke at the forum. He said poor wooden support and climate change make the problem worse. He added that windy rain can expose weak roofing, no matter the thickness of the sheet.

To fix this, his group has started training carpenters and installers. They must now earn a MANCAP certificate from SON before working professionally.

Ifeanyi Okeke, Director-General of SON, was represented at the event by Talatu Ethan, Director of Corporate Affairs. Ethan said SON is working with industry partners to improve product quality. She noted that roofing sheets are not just materials but the final layer of protection for any building.

Ethan warned that fake products can lead to serious harm, property damage, and loss of trust in honest manufacturers. She said SON is increasing enforcement through MANCAP and SONCAP programs. The agency is also checking ports to stop the entry of substandard imports.

SON has raided illegal warehouses and started legal action against those who break the rules. Ethan stressed that strong enforcement alone is not enough. She called for full cooperation from everyone in the industry.

Finally, SON is urging manufacturers, builders, importers, and installers to follow quality standards. Any product that fails to meet the rules will be seized or destroyed.

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The agency announced this in a statement emphasizing that the action aligns with its statutory responsibilities under the SON Act No. 14 of 2015, which mandates it to regulate and ensure the quality and safety of goods circulating in Nigeria.

Director-General of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, underscored the critical role of quality control, especially in products like tyres, which directly impact public safety on highways. He warned that both new and used tyres have a shelf life of four years and can fail catastrophically if used beyond that period.

Dr. Okeke also highlighted the risks posed by improper storage, stating that exposure to extreme temperatures can compromise the integrity of tyres, making them hazardous. He urged Nigerians to report suspected substandard goods to SON offices or through the organization’s toll-free line.

“Our mission is to protect consumers, and the destruction of these goods reflects our unwavering commitment to that goal,” Okeke said. “We cannot afford to allow unsafe products into our markets—doing so puts lives at risk and undermines national standards.”

He added that the agency remains vigilant and would continue to take decisive action against the importation, production, and sale of substandard products.

SON reaffirmed its appeal to manufacturers, importers, and distributors to prioritize compliance and quality, noting that regulatory enforcement will remain firm to protect public health and consumer trust.

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The traders—Peter Okala, Alhaji Yunusa Tanko, Prof. Samuel Anidike, and C.C. Emereonwu—filed the suit at the Federal High Court, Awka, seeking an order restraining further shop break-ins without court warrants. They also seek N100 million in damages, including N50 million for exemplary and general damages.

The applicants, represented by Chibuike Nwabueze, argue that not all traders engage in counterfeit drug sales, disputing NAFDAC’s claims.

Before the lawsuit, the traders condemned NAFDAC’s “sudden invasion” of the market, calling it “barbaric” and a rights infringement. They allege losses exceeding N200 million from the market’s 10-day closure and claim that NAFDAC seized goods valued at N500 billion during the raid.

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Shawo revealed that SON had identified several hotspots for substandard goods and was taking decisive action to remove them from the market.

“We are committed to ensuring all products sold in Nigeria meet required standards. We won’t tolerate any product risking citizens’ health,” he declared.

Shawo made this statement during a certificate presentation ceremony for Shangsat Rice, a local rice brand produced by Shangsat Nigeria Limited.

“The certification confirms Shangsat Rice meets required standards for quality, safety, and hygiene, providing satisfaction to consumers,” Shawo said.

He added that Shangsat Rice’s application for the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) certification was also under review.

Mr. Caring Simon, CEO of Shangsat Rice, expressed joy over the certification, calling it a validation of the company’s dedication to quality production.

“We are proud to receive this certification, which shows our commitment to producing high-quality rice for Nigerians,” Simon stated.

Shangsat Rice, popular in Plateau State for its quality and affordability, has operated for several years, providing jobs for many locals.

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The attackers, reportedly numbering about 30 and armed with AK-47 rifles, targeted the residence of one Adefija Michael Akinropo. Akinropo was abducted alongside his wife, son, and elder brother.

The kidnappers then moved to a nearby poultry farm, where they abducted a male worker and injured his wife.

A local resident, who is close to the victims, revealed that police from the Byazin station visited the scene but noted that the abductors have not yet contacted the victims’ families.

When contacted, FCT Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Josephine Adeh, said she was on her way to the office and promised to respond later. However, as of the time of filing this report, no further update had been provided.

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Speaking at the National Conference on the Building and Construction Sector, held in Abuja, Enoh underscored the urgent need for industry-wide collaboration to reinforce standards and prevent further loss of life and property.

The conference, themed “Adherence to Standard Practices: Bedrock of Sustainable Development in the Building/Construction Sector,” gathered notable figures from the industry, including engineers, builders, town planners, architects, and regulators, to address the causes of construction failures and to chart a path toward a safer, more resilient building sector.

In his address, Enoh emphasized that aligning construction practices with approved standards is crucial to national safety and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to economic growth. “Putting a stop to the unending incidents of building and construction collapses requires courage and unity among all stakeholders. Adhering strictly to agreed standards will significantly contribute to the administration’s priority of safeguarding lives and property,” he stated.

The minister expressed concern over a growing culture of disregard for standards in the construction sector, where compromised materials and practices are becoming alarmingly common. He lamented that “compromising on standards has almost become the norm,” and added that such actions “pose a threat to the robustness and sustainability of Nigeria’s most critical infrastructure sector.”

Enoh praised SON for hosting the conference and highlighted the need for a proactive regulatory environment, stating, “My hope is that the discussions here will resonate across Nigeria, impacting not only the building and construction sector but also instilling a broader culture of accountability.”

He emphasized that focusing on pre-construction standards and a strict enforcement framework is essential to fostering resilience and promoting a safe and sustainable built environment.

Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, the Director General of SON, echoed the minister’s call for unified action, emphasizing that SON is adopting a proactive approach to ensure up-to-date standards that respond to industry advancements. “We are committed to reducing substandard products by updating standards and aligning them with global best practices,” Okeke stated.

He further emphasized that SON’s mission is to build a resilient construction sector that supports economic growth and social development. “Collaboration is crucial in bridging knowledge gaps, promoting adherence to standards, and creating a culture of quality and accountability across the sector,” he added.

The President of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Prof. A.Z. Abubakar who was represented by Engr. Olaolu Ogunduyile, Vice President of COREN, urged SON to engage stakeholders actively in their regulatory processes. He stressed that cooperation among regulatory bodies, professional associations, and trade unions is essential to uphold the codes and standards that underpin sustainable development in the built environment. “As professionals, we must adhere to our codes of conduct and practice, ensuring they form the foundation of sustainable development within the industry,” he stated.

Highlighting the role of professional accountability, Bldr. Samson Ameh Opaluwah, Chairman of the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), reaffirmed CORBON’s dedication to strict standards, saying, “Collaboration among stakeholders is key to curbing building collapses in Nigeria. We will continue to adhere to standard practices to ensure a better building sector.”

Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, called for a united front against quackery in the industry. “All stakeholders must join hands to combat substandard practices and materials in construction,” she urged. “Addressing these issues is essential to prevent the devastation caused by building collapses.”

The Minister’s remarks, calling for courage and commitment, struck a chord with attendees. He assured the audience of the federal government’s support, adding that the Renewed Hope Administration under President Tinubu is fully committed to enhancing the sector’s standards.

Professor Samson Duna, Director General and CEO of the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), called for an end to the incessant building collapses across the country, urging SON and stakeholders to ensure that all processes and procedures in building and construction are strictly followed. “Every professional in the sector must know their role and collaborate with others rather than interfering in the work of another professional body,” he added.

The event enjoyed the support of the Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) and prominent members of the foremost housing advocacy group in Africa were present. The conference served as a unifying platform for stakeholders to discuss solutions, share insights, and strengthen partnerships, to build a safer and more sustainable future for Nigeria’s construction sector.

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