NCC Plans to Attract Smartphone Factories to Nigeria

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is initiating plans to attract global smartphone manufacturers to set up production facilities in Nigeria, with promises of government incentives. Chairman Idris Olorunnimbe disclosed this strategy during the Digital Africa Summit roundtable in Shanghai, China.

The local smartphone production is expected to help reduce device costs, create jobs, and accelerate digital inclusion across the country. Olorunnimbe is preparing to engage President Bola Tinubu to obtain waivers for manufacturers, with factory construction anticipated to commence in November.

The federal government is ready to support investors committed to building a sustainable smartphone manufacturing industry capable of serving both the Nigerian and African markets. This initiative aims to increase local production, reduce dependency on smartphone imports, and minimize the impact of exchange rate fluctuations.

Olorunnimbe emphasized that affordable smartphones are essential for education, financial inclusion, e-commerce, healthcare, and remote work access to government services. The NCC aims to ensure that locally manufactured devices meet global quality standards and remain competitively priced.