Ganduje Attends Landmark Launch of ARSO Quality Mark Initiative, Backs Drive for Economic Growth and Global Competitiveness
The Immediate Past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has attended the official launch of the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) Quality Mark Initiative, describing the programme as a strategic step towards strengthening Nigeria’s industrial capacity, improving product quality, and positioning the country for greater competitiveness in regional and global markets.
The landmark event, held in Abuja under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, marked the formal introduction of the ARSO Quality Mark Programme in Nigeria, a continental initiative designed to promote standardisation, quality assurance, and seamless trade across African countries.
The programme represents a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to build a quality-driven economy, encourage local production, and enhance the international acceptance of Made-in-Nigeria products. It also aligns with broader continental objectives aimed at deepening economic integration and unlocking opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of quality certification awards to Asin Premium Rice and several other enterprises by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). The certifications were granted in accordance with the adopted continental standard, ARS 461 for milled rice, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to internationally recognised quality benchmarks and best practices.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, stakeholders noted that the ARSO Quality Mark will serve as a trusted symbol of excellence, helping consumers identify products that meet rigorous standards of quality, safety, and reliability. The certification is also expected to provide Nigerian manufacturers with a competitive advantage in both domestic and international markets.
Observers described the launch as a timely intervention that will encourage innovation, improve productivity, and boost investor confidence in Nigeria’s manufacturing and agricultural sectors. By promoting adherence to continental standards, the initiative is expected to reduce technical barriers to trade and facilitate easier access for Nigerian products across African markets.
The presence of Dr. Ganduje at the event reflected the growing national consensus on the importance of quality assurance as a catalyst for sustainable economic development. Industry leaders and policymakers emphasized that standardisation remains a critical tool for enhancing industrial growth, creating jobs, and expanding export opportunities.
With the successful launch of the ARSO Quality Mark Initiative, Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to building a resilient, competitive, and export-oriented economy capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving African marketplace.
The initiative is expected to strengthen consumer confidence, improve the reputation of Nigerian products, and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic transformation agenda while fostering greater trade cooperation across the continent.