The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has remained steadfast in its battle against substandard tyres, a menace that has contributed significantly to road accidents and fatalities across the country. In a nation where counterfeit and inferior products flood the market, SON’s proactive stance in curbing the importation, sale, and use of substandard tyres deserves commendation.

SON’s efforts in ensuring road safety through tyre standardisation did not start today. Over the years, the agency has embarked on numerous campaigns, workshops, and sensitisation programs aimed at enlightening motorists on the dangers of using substandard tyres. As far back as the early 2000s, SON began issuing stern warnings about the proliferation of fake and expired tyres in Nigerian markets.

The agency consistently emphasized the need for proper tyre maintenance and the dangers associated with purchasing cheap, counterfeit tyres. In collaboration with transport unions, regulatory agencies, and law enforcement, SON has actively worked to raise awareness among commercial drivers and private vehicle owners.

Many of these campaigns have been carried out in key locations such as motor parks, auto markets, and logistics hubs, where unsuspecting buyers often fall prey to unscrupulous traders who sell substandard tyres at lower prices.

Recent enforcement activities by SON have led to the confiscation and destruction of thousands of fake and expired tyres, which unscrupulous dealers often refurbish and resell to unsuspecting consumers. These actions demonstrate the agency’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that only quality tyres, which meet the required safety standards, circulate in the Nigerian market.

The consequences of using substandard tyres are dire. From blowouts at high speeds to poor traction on wet roads, defective tyres significantly increase the risk of road crashes.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has repeatedly linked many fatal accidents to tyre-related failures, underscoring the need for strict regulation and enforcement. SON’s efforts align with the broader national goal of reducing road accidents and saving lives.
SON has also consistently updated its standards in response to global trends and innovations in tyre manufacturing.

The introduction of more stringent quality checks has played a pivotal role in keeping substandard products off the market. In recent years, the organisation has pushed for more rigorous inspection of imported tyres at Nigeria’s ports, ensuring that only products meeting international safety standards are allowed into the country. Beyond enforcement, SON has intensified public awareness campaigns to educate motorists and traders on the dangers of substandard tyres By collaborating with stakeholders, including transport unions, importers, and manufacturers, the agency has fostered a culture of compliance, ensuring that the Nigerian roads are safer for all. One of SON’s most impactful initiatives has been its periodic road safety seminars, where experts educate drivers and fleet managers on how to identify quality tyres and detect signs of wear and tear.


https://independent.ng/applauding-sons-tireless-fight-against-substandard-tyres/