In a concerted effort to bolster industry standards and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification drive, British American Tobacco (BAT) recently paid a courtesy visit to the Standards Organisation of Nigeria’s (SON) Operational Headquarters in Lekki, Lagos.
The team, in consonance with the Federal Government’s initiative to facilitate ease of doing business and support industries as partners in progress, was warmly received by Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, the Director General of SON. Dr. Okeke emphasized SON’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders keen on advancing the country’s interests through job creation and revenue generation from imports and exports. This move seeks to pivot the nation’s focus from petroleum products to its other abundant resources.
Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke (DG, SON), presenting a plaque to Mr. Yarub Al-Bahranij (MD, BAT)
Expressing gratitude for the reception, Mr. Yarub Al-Bahranij, the Managing Director of BAT, assured those present of the company’s unwavering commitment to maintaining standards, self-regulating its processes, and staying abreast of the industry’s evolving trends.
Dr. Okeke reiterated SON’s role as a regulatory body and guardian of standards, highlighting the importance of soliciting feedback from industry players and stakeholders. He noted that for new products such as vaping devices, heated tobacco products, and electronic tobacco heating devices, a comprehensive approach would be taken to ensure outcomes beneficial to all parties involved. This strategic move aims not only to create more job opportunities but also to enhance the nation’s economy.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Yarub pledged BAT’s continuous cooperation and collaboration with SON, particularly in areas of sensitization, corporate responsibility, and enforcement. As partners in progress, BAT affirmed its commitment to upholding ethical practices, even when under minimal scrutiny.
The meeting witnessed the presence of key management members, including Mr. Uchenna Okafor, Chief of Staff to the DG, Mr. Yunusa Mohammed Bala, Head of the Food Codex Group, Mrs. Odiri Erewa-Meggison, External Affairs Director, Mr. Pat Rich, Legal Director, and Mrs. Ruth Owojaiye, Head of Regulatory Engagements. This gathering marks a significant step towards fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between BAT and SON, aimed at ensuring industry excellence and economic growth in Nigeria.
