NCC pushes homegrown solutions to boost Nigeria’s digital independence

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called for increased investment in locally developed technologies to reduce Nigeria's reliance on foreign software and strengthen the country's digital sovereignty. At the closing ceremony of the fourth NCC Hackathon Live Show in Abuja, Executive Vice Chairman Aminu Maida emphasized the importance of developing technologies tailored to local needs.

Maida highlighted the hackathon, which showcased solutions for persons with disabilities and other digitally excluded Nigerians, as a stepping stone towards technological self-reliance. Innovations ranged from AI-powered speech-to-text technologies to accessible USSD solutions and inclusive mobile applications. Maida urged investors, telecommunications operators, and state governments to support these innovations, urging them to view the innovators as future founders, partners, and vendors.

He stressed the urgency of this need, citing the potential exclusion of millions of Nigerians with disabilities from economic and social activities due to inadequate digital products. MTN Nigeria pledged support for the innovators, offering infrastructure and partnerships. The Central Bank of Nigeria also expressed interest in deploying these innovations to expand financial inclusion, particularly for women, youths, persons with disabilities, and those in remote communities.