Standardisation Books Launch Showcases Roadmap for Advancing African Trade

By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka
Abuja

The National Centre for Women Development on Wednesday hosted the public presentation of two major publications by Dr. Marline Waziri titled “Evolution and Development of National, Regional, and International Standardization” and “Standardization on the African Continent: An Antidote for African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The ceremony attracted eminent personalities, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, state governors, ministers, traditional rulers, business leaders, diplomats, academics, and media professionals—an indication of the national relevance of the works.

Welcoming guests, Mrs. Foluso Bolaji, Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Director of Human Resource Management, said the books come at a pivotal moment in Africa’s pursuit of deeper economic integration. She stressed that standardisation plays a “critical role in driving Africa’s economic growth,” and that Dr. Waziri’s research offers crucial guidance on how harmonised standards can boost intra-African trade, encourage innovation, and support sustainable development within the AfCFTA framework.

Mrs. Bolaji commended Dr. Waziri for presenting a “roadmap for policymakers, industry leaders, and academics” to better understand and manage the dynamics of standardisation at national, regional, and global levels. She observed that the books demonstrate how effective quality-infrastructure systems can eliminate technical trade barriers, strengthen regulatory confidence, and enhance the global competitiveness of African products.

She also acknowledged Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, Director General and Chief Executive of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), for his continued support to the author, and appreciated the contributions of all stakeholders and LOC members who made the launch successful. According to her, the event should inspire constructive conversations and drive new initiatives that will propel Africa’s development objectives.

In closing, Mrs. Bolaji invited participants to enjoy “this celebration of knowledge and collaboration,” reaffirming the shared commitment to harnessing Dr. Waziri’s work in building a more integrated and prosperous continent.