The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has called for stronger local content development as a key strategy to drive sustainable growth in Nigeria’s digital economy.
The association made this known during its Annual General Meeting held in Lagos, where industry stakeholders emphasized the need to empower local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as critical drivers of national digital transformation.
Local Content as an Economic Strategy
Speaking at the event, CEO of Broadbased Communications Limited, Chidi Ibisi, explained that local content should not be viewed as protectionism but as a structured approach to building capacity, strengthening participation, and retaining economic value within Nigeria.
He noted that SMEs account for over 98% of businesses in Nigeria and contribute more than 50% of the country’s GDP, making them central to any meaningful economic transformation strategy.
Strengthening Indigenous Telecom Operators
ATCON President Tony Emoekpere stressed that Nigeria’s digital economy growth depends heavily on empowering local operators, particularly in extending broadband access beyond major cities.
According to him, indigenous ISPs are best positioned to deliver last-mile connectivity and support innovation at the grassroots level, where demand for digital services continues to rise.
Policy Direction and Industry Collaboration
The association also announced plans to develop a telecom-specific local content framework. This will involve collaboration between regulators, industry players, and other stakeholders through a proposed multi-stakeholder committee.
The goal is to ensure that foreign investment in the sector is tied to local participation, skills transfer, job creation, and long-term economic retention within Nigeria.
Unlocking Broader Digital Opportunities
Stakeholders at the AGM highlighted that strengthening local participation in telecoms could unlock wider opportunities across FinTech, software development, digital platforms, and emerging technologies.
By expanding broadband infrastructure and supporting indigenous providers, Nigeria could significantly accelerate digital inclusion and economic diversification.
Outlook
The discussions reflect a growing industry consensus that local capacity building is essential for sustainable growth in Nigeria’s telecom sector. As digital infrastructure expands, the focus is shifting toward ensuring that local businesses and talent play a central role in shaping the country’s digital future.
