Based on what it described as incessant complaints received from consumers of indigenous IT devices and observed need to adhere to world class standards, the management of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), on Thursday, January 18, 2018, announced the reorganization of the process of registering and certifying indigenous Information Technology (IT) and indigenous Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
In a statement signed by the Director General/CEO, Dr Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, NITDA averred that “All previously registered indigenous IT OEMs whose certifications have expired should note that continuance of sale of machines and equipment not tested and certified by NITDA is a violation of existing rules and procedures of the Agency. They are therefore advised to initiate the recertification process with immediate effect. We also call on all customers to demand current certification of NITDA before devices are purchased from indigenous OEMs”.
Pantami noted further that “This reorganisation became necessary considering the incessant complaints received from consumers of indigenous IT devices. It is also aimed at facilitating and ensuring adherence to world class standards. This will guarantee the quality and durability of locally assembled devices. NITDA will henceforth mandate quality after-sales-support as a significant part of the registration and certification process and as mandatory part of the operations of all indigenous OEMs.
Continuing, NITDA added that “All other entities desirous of assembling and selling IT devices in Nigeria should also apply to the Agency for registration and certification, Interested entities should note that only NITDA registered indigenous OEMs are entitled to the reliefs and incentives as contained in the Regulatory Guidelines for Nigerian Content Development in ICT 2013. The certification process of OEMs and the Regulatory Guidelines for Nigerian Content Development in ICT 2013 are issued and implemented pursuant to Section 6 of the National Information Technology Development Act 2007”.
It was not clear if the development was fallout of stakeholders’ consultations or official executive decision of NITDA in moving the industry forward.
