The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment Amb. Nura Abba Rimi has disclosed that efforts were being made to convert Weights and Measures department of the Ministry into a Federal Government Agency.
He made the remark while delivering his keynote address at the 2024 quarterly meeting of the department with the theme “Reviewing the Legal Metrology Standard Operating Procedures for Sustainable Growth of Nigeria’s Economy’ at the Ministry Headquarters in Abuja.
Nura said “In view of the importance of your duties to the economic growth of Nigeria, I have taken special interest in the Department. You may wish to know that work is currently underway to correct the conflicting Sections of the Petroleum Industry Act, which I learnt has been causing some challenges in the execution of your duties in the oil and gas sector. I am also taking steps to re-activate the retention of 20% of the Internally Generated Revenue accruable to you. Furthermore, efforts are being made towards upgrading the Department to an Agency to enable you achieve more of your goals.”
Permanent Secretary further stated “I must commend your duties, which are essential and significant to the economy of the country. As you are all aware, the first priority areas of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is to reform the economy to deliver sustained inclusive growth. So, I was pleased when I was informed of the theme of this assembly i.e. “Reviewing the Legal Metrology Standard Operating Procedures for a Sustainable Economic Growth”. The enforcement of Legal Metrology in virtually every sector of the economy, does not just protect consumers, but assists Nigerian businesses to avoid unnecessary losses from inaccurate measurements, and accord them the badge of traceability that enables healthy competition both in local and international markets.
While interacting with the Directors at the event , he enjoined them to perfect what they are doing even if new project are not considered in the budget appopriation , he assured them that effort was would br to include more projects in the next budget.
In his opening remarks, the Director of Weights and Measures Department Bamidele Olajide while welcoming the representatives of the seven Zonal offices and the 36 states offices across the nation to the event said “It is imperative that we refelect on the significance of our mission and reaffirm our commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and diligence . By adhering to rigorous standard operating procedures, we will not only safeguard the interests of consumers and business but also lay the foundation for a thriving and equitable economy”
Bamidele said “ As we embark on the journey of reviewing our standard operating procedures , let us keep in mind the profound impact our work has on the lives of our fellow citizens . The fairness and transparency we uphold in our measurements diretly translate into trust – a trust that forms the foundation of a healthy and growing economy”
Henry David
For: Director, Press and Public Relations
February 8, 2024
