The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed that its strategic policies, particularly those focused on local content development, have yielded significant achievements, including the prohibition of whole-body subscriber identification module (SIM) card imports. This ban not only alleviated foreign exchange demand within the sector but also fostered a thriving local opportunity, generating over N55 billion for indigenous SIM card manufacturers. This success, in turn, has led to the creation of both direct and indirect employment opportunities.
During the ongoing NTICE 2023 expo in Lagos, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, highlighted the impact of these policies. He remarked that Nigeria’s cultural richness, innovation, and resilience have paved the way for solutions tailored to the nation’s challenges and aspirations.
Represented by the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Ubale Maska, Prof. Danbatta noted that the Nigerian telecom sector stands as a significant contributor to the nation’s socio-economic growth. This contribution is exemplified by its role in pulling the country out of recession, with a GDP contribution of 12.45% in Q4 2020, which increased to 14.13% in Q1 2023. The sector also boasts two of Nigeria’s most valuable listed companies, collectively possessing a market capitalization exceeding N10.45 trillion.
Additionally, Prof. Danbatta highlighted the NCC’s substantial achievements, including generating over $820 million in revenue from the auction and grant of 3.5GHz spectrum band licenses to boost Fifth Generation (5G) services in Nigeria. He emphasized that Nigeria’s proactive stance has positioned it on the global 5G map ahead of numerous countries in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
The commitment to enhancing quality of service and experience within the telecom sector remains resolute, even as costs of service provision rise. Prof. Danbatta stressed that promoting indigenous content and value creation within the sector’s value chain is vital to avoid an inevitable increase in telecom tariffs. He showcased the role of the Nigeria Office for Development of Indigenous Telecoms Sector (NODITS) in driving national policies and supporting indigenous ventures.
Opinion:
The NCC’s strategic endeavors in promoting local content have yielded remarkable outcomes, such as the ban on imported SIM cards that led to substantial financial gains for local manufacturers and job creation. The Commission’s commitment to indigenous development, exemplified by initiatives like NODITS and the NTICE expo, reinforces the Nigerian spirit of innovation and resourcefulness. As the telecom sector continues to evolve, its pivotal role in propelling economic growth remains evident, underscoring the importance of fostering a conducive environment for technological advancements, local participation, and sustainable growth.
Published by Marketnewsng