NCC: We are Creating Conducive Environment for Startups, SMEs

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has stated that it was playing a crucial role in the nation’s digital economy drive by providing a conducive environment for both tech start-ups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
The Executive Commissioner, Technical Standards, NCC, Ubale Maska, stated this at the National SMEs/Entrepreneurship Programmes for Start-ups on Thursday, in Abuja.

Speaking through the Head, New Media and Information Security, NCC, Dr. Chidi Diugwu, he said: “The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has played a pivotal role in cultivating an environment conducive to start-ups and innovative hubs.
“This persistent endeavours and commitment to the promotion of a digital economy have set the stage for a transformative era of innovation and entrepreneurship.”

According to him, the programme represents a significant stride forward as it presents a platform for start-ups to translate their innovative concepts into tangible reality.
“It also presents an invaluable opportunity for entrepreneurs to acquire knowledge, expand their enterprises, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of our nation.

“We find ourselves on the cusp of a new era, one in which SMEs and start-ups assume a leading role in propelling our economy forward, generating employment opportunities, and shaping the trajectory of our collective future,” he added.

“The stakeholders’ engagement,” he stressed, “is just with the NCC and there will be subsequent ones that you will have the CBN and other regulations around.”
The keynote speaker and acting Director, E-Government and Regulation, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mr. Ben Ewah, delivered his presentation titled, “Best Strategies to Stay Ahead of the Curve in the Telecommunications Emerging Technologies Investment Space: Skills for creating MVPs (Minimum Valuable Products/services) and achieving effective problem/solution fit for telecom entrepreneurs.”

He said: “With great potential, comes great challenges.” SMEs and start-ups, he noted, “often grapple with resource limitations, regulatory hurdles, and the daunting task of keeping pace with technological advancements,” adding that within these challenges lie immense opportunities.