The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) remains fully committed to the advancement of local content and the overall development of the Nigerian economy, says Dr. Aminu Maida, the executive vice chairman.
Speaking through Mr. Reuben Muoka, director, Public Affairs at the Commission, during NCC Special Day at the 45th Kaduna International Trade Fair, Dr. Maida said that NCC recognizes the importance of deepening the local content value chain as a critical driver for economic sustainability and growth.
In his words,
“Robust local content value chain will not only create economic opportunities but also contribute to technological advancement, job creation, and skills development within the country.
“The NCC remains dedicated to fostering an enabling environment for telecommunications industry, where local content and innovation can thrive as this is one of the most critical thrust of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
“We cannot overemphasize the fact that robust local content value chain will not only create economic opportunities but also contribute to technological advancement, job creation, and skills development within the country.”
The EVC said that in line with the Commission’s commitment to supporting local content, it has implemented various initiatives to promote indigenous participation in the telecommunications sector.
“The Nigerian Office for Development of Indigenous Telecommunications Sector (NODITS), a critical unit in our Digital Economy Department and our Research and Development Department, encourages local manufacturing and assembly of telecommunications equipment, promotes local software development, and supports initiatives aimed at enhancing digital skills and entrepreneurship among Nigerian youth.
“The Commission has sponsored a number of Hackathons to encourage and promote Nigerian innovator expanding the frontiers of the Digital Economy”, he said.
In 2023, three winners emerged in three critical thematic areas of innovations; Blockchain-enabled Data Protection Solutions for Enhancing Regulatory Compliance; Assistive Technology Solutions for the Elderly and People with Disabilities and Technology Solutions for Renewable Energy in Rural Areas.
Dr. Maida added that NCC has continued to prioritize consumer protection and empowerment, ensuring that consumers have access to high-quality telecommunications services and are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities.
“We believe that an empowered consumer base is essential for driving demand and sustaining the growth of the local content value chain.
“As we participate in this trade fair, we urge all stakeholders, including telecommunications operators, equipment manufacturers, software developers, and consumers, to embrace the ethos of promoting local content. By working together, we can create a more vibrant and inclusive telecommunications industry that contributes significantly to the Nigeria’s economic recovery and growth.”
Fact:
As at Q3 of 2023, the telecoms industry’s contribution to the nation’s GDP stood at 13.5%.
(Source – Nigerian Gross Domestic Product Report, November 2023 – A publication of the National Bureau of Statistics).
