SON Holds Sensitization Workshop in Kwara, Warns Against Fake Batteries

By Taiwo Ogunniyi

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has sounded a warning to Nigerians regarding the dangers of counterfeit batteries and deceptive labeling in the battery and solar energy industries.

This caution was issued at a sensitization workshop organized by SON at its office in Ilorin, Kwara State, aiming to promote consumer safety and improve energy solutions nationwide.

During the workshop, themed “Driving the Efficiency and Effectiveness of the Battery/Solar Power Sector to 100%,” facilitator Engr. Ibukun Alasan highlighted the serious risks posed by low-quality batteries, which can malfunction and even jeopardize lives.

“Labels that mislead users lead to improper maintenance and product damage,” Alasan warned.

She stressed that using substandard batteries for high-demand equipment not only shortens product lifespan but also poses potential hazards.

Alasan urged Nigerians to check for the SON quality seal on batteries before making a purchase, emphasizing that “many customers now rely on trusted brands because they deliver genuine value.”

Another speaker, Habibullahi Abdullahi, underlined the importance of quality solar accessories in advancing Nigeria’s renewable energy goals.

He called for strengthened collaboration among stakeholders to establish mandatory quality standards, saying, “As stakeholders—manufacturers, regulators, and consumers—we must urgently work together to set stringent quality standards and regulatory frameworks.”

Representing SON’s Director General, Ifeanyi Okeke, the Kwara State Coordinator, Ayeni Feyisayo, highlighted the adverse effects of substandard products on productivity and overall quality of life.

“If people cannot reliably power their equipment, it impacts their mental clarity, efficiency, and overall welfare,” he noted, encouraging stakeholders to commit to responsible production and consumption practices.

The SON reiterated its dedication to enforcing standards, warning that distributors caught selling counterfeit products would face severe penalties.

Participants were urged to utilize the insights gained from the workshop to enhance the integrity of Nigeria’s battery and solar industries, supporting the nation’s journey toward sustainable and dependable energy solutions.

==============