en.Wedoany.com Reported - Nigeria has introduced incentives to boost the local production of smartphones, tablets, and other telecommunications equipment, aiming to reduce costs and expand digital access.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) believes these incentives are expected to revitalize local manufacturing, create jobs, and accelerate the country's transition to a more inclusive and self-reliant digital economy. The plan could also benefit telecom operators by increasing smartphone penetration, driving mobile broadband adoption, and stimulating demand for digital services such as mobile banking, e-commerce, streaming, and cloud applications. Higher device penetration will also help maximize returns on investment in 5G networks.

NCC Board Chairman Idris Ibikunle Olorunnimbe stated that the regulator is taking a more proactive role in supporting industrial growth, creating a favorable environment for investors to establish device manufacturing plants in Nigeria. Incentives will include tax holidays and simplified customs procedures to reduce production costs and enhance the competitiveness of locally assembled devices.

Olorunnimbe noted that effective regulation is crucial to ensuring consumers have access to genuine, safe, and affordable devices with reliable warranties, and that affordability should not come at the expense of quality or market integrity. Although Nigeria has made significant progress in expanding telecommunications coverage, the high cost of smartphones still prevents millions of Nigerians from fully participating in the digital economy. According to the latest industry data, mobile networks cover nearly 90% of the population, but over two-thirds of Nigerians remain offline, with only about 27% owning a smartphone in 2024, highlighting the affordability challenge. These figures indicate a need to complement network investments with more affordable connected devices.

Olorunnimbe also advocated for flexible device financing models, arguing that Nigerians should no longer be required to purchase smartphones with a one-time upfront cash payment. Locally manufactured smartphones, routers, and MiFi devices will be included in the Commission's digital inclusion program, with built-in access to free educational platforms and key government digital services, including e-health, tax, and civil registration portals.

Previously, companies such as Afrione, Imose, Omatek, and Zinox have attempted local device assembly in Nigeria. However, many have struggled to scale production due to high manufacturing costs, unstable power supply, and supply chain constraints.