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The Halal Certification Authority (HCA) has officially rebranded as the Halal and Haram Distinction Development Initiative (HDI), unveiling a new corporate identity aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s participation in the global halal economy, promoting inclusivity and securing international recognition.
The new identity was unveiled on Monday during a press conference held at the organisation’s conference hall in the Hajj Mabrur Building, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of HDI, Professor Ibrahim Oreagba, described the development as a strategic transformation that reflects the organisation’s expanded mandate after nearly a decade of operations.
According to him, the new identity goes beyond a mere change of name and embodies the organisation’s commitment to ethical standards, global compliance, transparency and consumer confidence.
“Today marks a significant milestone in the journey of the Halal Certification Authority as we unveil our strategic rebranding into the Halal and Haram Distinction Development Initiative for Inclusivity,”
Prof. Oreagba said that HCA was established in 2016 as a faith based certification body responsible for developing halal product standards and conducting inspections in accordance with Islamic law.
He said the organisation has since evolved into Nigeria’s leading halal certification body, certifying more than 100 companies and over 300 products across sectors including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, logistics, tourism and packaging.
Prof Oreagba listed companies such as Flour Mills, BUA Foods, Rite Foods and Domino’s Pizza among firms whose products have received halal certification through the organisation.
According to him, HDI remains committed to developing halal standards that conform with Islamic principles and internationally accepted requirements, while providing certification services, building human capacity, promoting product traceability through technology and collaborating with stakeholders to strengthen the halal industry.
The chairman said the rebranding aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s National Halal Economy Strategy and positions the organisation to play a greater role in developing Nigeria’s halal ecosystem.
He noted that the global halal economy is valued at over 7.7 trillion dollars, presenting enormous opportunities for Nigeria to expand exports and attract investments through internationally recognised halal certification.
One of the highlights of the event was the announcement of the Fifth International Halal Seminar scheduled for August 19 at NECA House, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, with the theme, Halal Development Beyond Borders.
He said the seminar will feature capacity building sessions, expert presentations, masterclasses on halal standards, business matchmaking opportunities and a halal products exhibition.
