By SN24.com 
20/6/2026
By Peter Akpah.
Plateau-based Shangsat Nigerian Limited has recorded another milestone with the certification of its Shangsat Premium Rice (Grade 1)* under the *ARSO Quality Mark*, issued by the *African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO)*.
The award was presented to the company on *June 4, 2026*, during the *African Quality Mark Award Ceremony* held at the A-Class Park and Recreation Centre, Wuse 2, Abuja. The event was hosted by the *Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)* in collaboration with the *Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI)* and ARSO.
Representing Shangsat at the ceremony, the company’s *Head of Media, Elizabeth At*, received the certificate on behalf of the CEO, *Mr. Caring Simon*.
*Certification Validates Compliance to African Standards*
According to SON, the ARSO Quality Mark is issued to companies that have met all requirements of *African Standards (ARS)* adopted as *Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) – NIS ARSO 464:2017*. The mark validates compliance with continental quality, safety, and performance requirements.
The Director General of SON, *Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke*, and the Secretary General of ARSO said the certification confirms that Shangsat Premium Rice meets standards required for safe consumption anywhere in the world.
“The African Quality Mark is practical proof that certified products meet top safety and performance needs. Shangsat rice has met the required standard and we urge Nigerians and the global community to patronize it,” Dr. Okeke said.
He added that SON is working to ensure only safe and certified products are in the market, and that the certification aligns with *President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda* on food security and economic growth.
*SON Issues 220 Certificates to 131 Companies*
A total of *131 companies* received quality certificates for *220 products* at the event. SON said the awards demonstrate local compliance with continental standards, boost Nigeria’s readiness for global trade, and position Made-in-Nigeria goods for opportunities under the *African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)*.
*Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwu*, Permanent Secretary, FMITI, who delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Honourable Minister, *Dr. Jumoke Oduwole*, commended indigenous companies like Shangsat for promoting Nigeria’s image. He urged certified companies to maintain quality standards to attract more investment.
“Certification and growth in trade and investment fall in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for sustainable economic growth and food security,” he stated.
*Shangsat: From Jos to Continental Recognition*
It will be recalled that SON had earlier presented a Product Identification Scheme certificate to the Jos-based company.
Shangsat Nigerian Limited began preliminary operations in *2018* and is located along *Rayfield Zarmaganda Road, Jos South, Plateau State*. The company has built a reputation for high-quality rice production, backed by a standard laboratory, modern machines, and strict hygiene and production processes.
Speaking after receiving the award, Shebum Elizabeth Dakung thanked SON, ARSO, and the Federal Ministry for their support. She said the certification will spur the company to expand further.
“On behalf of the CEO, Mr. Caring Simon, this award motivates us to do more. Our vision is to deliver quality products and boost the economy. Shangsat Premium Rice comes in 50kg, 25kg and 10kg sizes, with complementary and customized packages available on request,” she said.
The certification positions *Shangsat Premium Rice* as one of Nigeria’s Grade 1 rice brands meeting both national and African quality benchmarks.