By Adaobi Nsofor
In a bid to ensure quality and standardisation of kaolin products, in line with global best practices, the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has presented certificate to Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited, having met the requirements both locally and internationally.
Receiving the certificate at the Kaolin Processing Factory Site, Umunuko, Ukpor, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, the MD/CEO of Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company, Prof Charles O. Ofoegbu, noted that the project was a dream come true, which is also in line with the Soludo-led administration’s agenda of transforming the state into an industrial hub.
Prof. Ofoegbu further assured that with the endorsement from SON, the Kaolin products will always maintain its standard of delivering quality products in the labour market.
He also commended the state government for reviving the Kaolin Processing Plant, which was abandoned over 20 years ago, and his doggedness in ensuring that quality products are being circulated in the market.
The State Coordinator, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Anambra State Office Two, Mr. Michael Chukwudi Ogbuji, shortly after presenting the certificate, explained that they had made several visits to the factory house in order to key in to the value chain of ensuring that the products were of good quality that meets both local and international standards.
Representing the Director General of SON, Mr Ogbuji, while applauding the state government for believing in Made in Nigeria Products, encouraged the company to make frantic efforts to ensure that the mineral products are not low in standard.
Speaking in an interview, the General Manager of the company, Mr Ebuka Ujubuonu, emphasised that the idea for setting up the factory was to encourage local technology and rural industrialization, while taking advantage of the mineral deposits found in the community.
Mr Ujubuonu noted that the project will surely reduce criminalities and other social vices by creating job opportunities among the youths. He further mentioned that the state government is taking it a step higher by constructing the pharmaceutical factory that would produce the pharmaceutical grade Kaolin for medicinal purposes.
The Treasurer of Ukpor Improvement Union, Mr Edmond Meboro, while speaking on behalf of the community, thanked the state government for giving their community a face lift.
He said that the massive project would be for the benefit of the community and the state at large.
