Unlike Iran, the Nigeria is the latest country to ban the use of foreign IT products, reports TNW. Nigerian government announced yesterday a ban that will not allow foreign computers and technology products to use in public institutions. The government believes that such a move will help in promoting “country-made” products and even help in developing in the local information communications technology (ICT) industry.
Director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Cleopas Anganye made the declaration at a 2-day retreat on draft guidelines for home grown IT hardware products. Angaye said procurement by public institutions of non made-in-Nigeria computers, where certified local brands exist, would be an offence punishable by a prison term and fine, under the NITDA Act.
Tunde Balogun, president of the Computer and Allied Products Dealers Association of Nigeria (CAPDAN) said Nigerian manufacturers could compete with foreign brands with favourable policies in place. However, Tunde said, the major impediment to development of the industry is the implementation of these policies.
