Local content creators and indigenous technology solution manufacturers in Nigeria are voicing their plea for government support. They believe that for Nigeria to replicate India’s success, it must have faith in and support local content.
Many of these voices expressed their frustration with the government’s rhetoric on local content policies while most acquisitions continue to be foreign products. They argue that this practice encourages capital flight and stifles local innovation.
Their concerns grew more pronounced after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) announced that, despite banning the importation of whole-body SIM cards for a year, it had generated over N55 billion in business for local SIM card manufacturers in Nigeria. This announcement was made by Prof. Umar Danbatta during the Nigerian Telecommunications Indigenous Content EXPO (NTICE) 2023 held in Lagos.
The theme of the event, “Harnessing Indigenous Content for Economic Growth; Networking to boost Investment,” brought to light the struggles of local producers who have been in business for years without government patronage and support.
Engr. Babagana Digima, Team Lead at Nigeria Office for Developing the Indigenous Telecom Sector (NODITS), emphasized the importance of harnessing indigenous content to unlock Nigeria’s immense potential. He highlighted that the expo was not just a gathering of like-minded individuals but a hub of innovation and creativity, where ideas, partnerships, and collaborations are born to drive economic growth and sustainable development.
