Idris Olorunnimbe, the Chairman of the Governing Board for the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has promised to lobby the President for special incentives for investors who establish smartphone manufacturing plants within Nigeria. This initiative was shared following the Digital Africa Summit Roundtable held in Shanghai on June 24.
Olorunnimbe highlighted that domestic production is essential to lowering device costs and creating numerous job opportunities. By moving away from a reliance on imports, Nigeria can stabilize retail prices, protect consumers from foreign exchange volatility, and increase digital access for students and entrepreneurs. He specifically stated that manufacturers who commit to breaking ground on new facilities before November would receive direct government support and regulatory facilitation.
Addressing past failures in the sector, Olorunnimbe emphasized that the focus must be on high-quality production that rivals imported brands. With over 170 million mobile connections, Nigeria offers a vast market, yet affordability remains a barrier to full digital participation. To improve the market, the NCC is also updating its Type Approval Regulations and introducing a Device Management System to eliminate counterfeit hardware and build consumer trust.
Finally, the NCC chairman advocated for smartphone financing options, such as installment payment plans, to reduce the burden of upfront costs for citizens. He urged industry stakeholders and African leaders to collaborate on standardizing device quality and prioritizing local production to foster a self-reliant digital economy.
