CAMAN Calls for Action Against Counterfeit Cables to Protect Local Industry and Public Safety
...Highlights Magnet Test as a Simple Tool to Identify Genuine Cables
The Cable Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (CAMAN) has raised alarm over the growing threat posed by counterfeit cables, warning of the severe risks they pose to lives, properties, and Nigeria's electrical infrastructure.
Speaking at the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) Safety Conference 2024 in Abuja, CAMAN President, Mrs. Bukola Adubi, decried the influx of substandard cables in the market. While commending the efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in tackling the menace, Adubi stressed that more needs to be done.
"I have witnessed SON's relentless efforts in seizing and destroying fake cables. Yet, the market remains saturated with these dangerous products," Adubi said. "The appeal of cheaper prices drives demand for these substandard cables, as many consumers prioritize cost over safety, risking both public safety and project integrity."
Adubi revealed that CAMAN members have been forced to scale back open-market sales due to the proliferation of counterfeit products. To help consumers identify genuine cables, she recommended a simple magnet test. "Copper, being non-ferrous, does not react to magnets, unlike iron-based cables that heat up quickly during use, posing serious fire hazards," she explained.
The CAMAN President called for increased support for Nigerian cable manufacturers, citing their substantial investments in maintaining high-quality standards and workforce development. "Protecting local industries is essential. CAMAN members uphold strict quality standards and have heavily invested in supporting Nigeria's industrial growth," she added.
Adubi highlighted that Nigerian-manufactured cables rank among the best in the world, reinforcing CAMAN's commitment to maintaining global-quality standards. The association comprises 13 member companies, including notable manufacturers such as MicCom Cables & Wires, Kabelmetal Ltd, Nigerchin Ltd, Coleman Wires & Cables, and Cutix Plc.
The NESI Safety Conference, themed "Identifying Opportunities, Prospects, and Challenges of Safety Standards and Regulations in Nigeria's Power Sector," was organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations in collaboration with the Association for Public Policy Analysis (APPA) and other stakeholders.
In a related development, Adubi participated in an interactive session organized by the Senate Committee on Power, where she joined industry leaders to discuss critical issues affecting Nigeria's electricity sector. Key topics included the recurring collapse of the national grid, low power generation, and inconsistencies in electricity tariffs—issues that continue to hamper the sector’s growth and consumer satisfaction.
CAMAN reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to enhance safety standards, protect consumers, and safeguard Nigeria's reputation in the global cable industry.
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