Nigerian Communications Commission is fully committed to advancement of local content and overall development of the nation’s economy. Executive Vice Chairman of the commission Dr Aminu Maida stated this while delivering a speech at the NCC Special Day during the 45th Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA).
According to him, the regulatory body recognized the importance of deepening the local content value chain as a stimulant for economic sustainability and growth.
He said “the NCC remains dedicated to fostering an enabling environment for telecommunications industry, where local content and innovation can thrive, which he noted is one of the most critical thrust of the ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.
The EVC is of the view 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.
Given its commitment to supporting such initiative, the regulatory commission, he said has implemented various initiatives to promote indigenous participation in the telecommunications sector.
In practical terms, the EVC rolled out the Commission’s score cards. For instance, he said “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 EVC further hinted that “the Commission has sponsored a number of Hackathons to encourage and promote Nigerian innovator expanding the frontiers of the Digital Economy.”
According to him, “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.”
He urged stakeholders and key partners including telecommunications operators among others to embrace the ethos of promoting local content.
The above notwithstanding, Dr Maida harped on the need to ensure that challenges faced by consumers are addressed, much as the commission is committed to protection of consumers’ rights. He encouraged service providers to be ethical and uphold highest standards of service delivery.