The management of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has announced the restructuring process for the registration of Indigenous Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
The government IT Clearing House therefore called on all Information Technology (IT) Indigenous Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), other government establishments, the organised private sector and the general public to take note the restructured process of registering and certifying indigenous IT OEMs.
According to a statement signed by Dr. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, Director General/CEO of NITDA, the restructuring became necessary considering the incessant complaints received from consumers of indigenous IT devices.
NITDA said it is also aimed at facilitating and ensuring adherence to world class standards that will ultimately 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 a mandatory part of the operations of all indigenous OEMs,” the statement said.
Thus, 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. All such agencies are therefore advised to initiate the recertification process with immediate effect.
“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 added.