NCC: Robust Local Content Value Chain Will Boost Economy, Job Creation

Emma Okonji

The Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has stressed the need for robust local content value chain in the telecoms industry, adding that it would not only create economic opportunities, but also contribute to technological advancement, job creation and skills development within the country.

Maida, who said this on Tuesday, during the NCC’s Special Day at the ongoing Kaduna Trade Fair, with the theme: “Sustaining Economic Recovery through Deepening Local Content Value Chain”, explained that the theme was extremely important, as it resonates deeply with the principles and objectives of the NCC on the promotion of local content development in the telecoms industry.

“In line with our commitment to supporting local content, the NCC 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,” Maida said.

He, however, said while promoting economic growth through development of local content, there would be need to also address the challenges faced by consumers, as NCC remained committed to protecting their rights while ensuring their satisfaction.

“We therefore encourage businesses and service providers to prioritise customer satisfaction and uphold the highest standards of service delivery.

“With our keen interest and commitment to consumer protection, the NCC has implemented measures to safeguard the interest of consumers and businesses alike. We have established a robust regulatory framework that promotes transparency, quality of service, and fair competition.

“Additionally, we have set up channels for consumer redress, ensuring that consumers can resolve disputes in a timely and efficient manner. We have also established seamless programmes that will protect, inform and educate telecoms consumers through various consumer-centric initiatives,” Maida said.

He further stressed the need for consumer education, management of consumers’ complaints, development of Do-Not-Disturb (DND) initiative, development of Mobile Number Portability (MNP) initiative, the need for data rollover, and campaign on National Identification Number (NIN) among others, in order to boost customer satisfaction.

In the area of security, Maida said telecoms consumers must link their NIN to their SIM.

“To this end, the commission has directed all telecommunication operators to bar phone lines of subscribers whose lines are not linked to their NINs on or before February 28, 2024,” Maida further said.