A coalition of technology stakeholders in Ibadan has urged the National Assembly Committee on Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Cyber security chaired by Senator Yakubu Oseni of the Red Chamber and Hon Adedeji Dhkirullahi Olajide of the Green Chamber to prioritize support for local content in the ICT sector.
The group, comprising software developers, content creators, and digital personalities, emphasizes the importance of fostering a vibrant local ICT ecosystem to drive economic growth and create jobs in Nigeria.
In a statement released today by the Director of OCATTECH VENTURES, the group highlighted the significant potential of the ICT sector to drive economic growth and create jobs in Nigeria. They argued that by supporting local content, the country can reduce its reliance on foreign technology, develop indigenous expertise, and promote innovation.”The ICT sector is a key driver of economic development, and it is imperative that we create an enabling environment for local businesses to thrive,” said OCAT. “By prioritizing local content, we can foster innovation, create jobs, and reduce our dependence on foreign technology.”
The group called on the National Assembly ICT Committee to take the following steps to support local content:
• Increase funding for ICT research and development: By providing adequate funding, the government can encourage local businesses to invest in research and development, leading to the creation of new products and services.
• Implement policies that favor local content: The government should introduce policies that give preference to locally produced ICT products and services, such as procurement regulations and tax incentives.
• Promote collaboration between academia and industry: By fostering partnerships between universities and businesses, the government can help bridge the gap between research and commercialization.
• Provide training and capacity building programs: Investing in training and capacity building programs can help equip local ICT professionals with the skills needed to compete globally.
The group expressed hope that the National Assembly ICT Committee will take these recommendations into consideration and work to create a more supportive environment for local content in the ICT sector.
