By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja
The National Centre for Women Development hosted the launch of Dr. Marline Waziri’s two seminal works, “Evolution and Development of National, Regional, and International Standardization” and “Standardization on the African Continent: An Antidote for African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” on Wednesday.
The event drew top government officials, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, state governors, ministers, royal fathers, industry captains, diplomats, academics, and media representatives, underscoring the strategic importance of the publications.
In her welcome remarks, Mrs. Foluso Bolaji, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and Director of Human Resource Management, emphasized that the books arrive at a critical juncture for Africa’s economic integration. She noted that standardization is a “critical role in driving Africa’s economic growth” and that Dr. Waziri’s works provide valuable insights into how harmonized standards can unlock intra‑African trade, foster innovation, and support sustainable development under AfCFTA.
Mrs. Bolaji praised Dr. Waziri for offering a “roadmap for policymakers, industry leaders, and academics” to navigate the complexities of standardization across national, regional, and international spheres. She highlighted that the books illustrate how standardized quality infrastructure can reduce technical barriers to trade, enhance regulatory trust, and position African products competitively in global markets.
The LOC Chairperson extended gratitude to Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke*, Director General and Chief Executive of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), for his support of the author, and thanked all stakeholders and LOC members whose efforts made the launch possible. She expressed hope that the event would spark meaningful discussions and inspire new initiatives advancing Africa’s development agenda.
Concluding her remarks, Mrs. Bolaji welcomed attendees to “this celebration of knowledge and collaboration” and invited them to enjoy the launch, reinforcing the collective aspiration to leverage Dr. Waziri’s contributions for a more integrated, prosperous African continent.
