Govt asks NITDA to certify local computers, others for MDAs

By The Guardian Newspaper

THE Federal Government has authorised the National Information Technology Agency of Nigeria (NITDA) to clear all locally made information technology equipment before they are acquired by Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

It also directed the MDAs to patronise locally made computers, which are cleared by NITDA or face sanctions.

In a circular titled: “Guidelines for the purchase of locally assembled computers,” dated on July 17, 2012, which was sent to all the MDAs, the government said the objective was to give effect to the policy on the patronage of “made in Nigeria information systems.

The circular was signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Anyim Pius Anyim.

The government warned that a breach of the guidelines, which are in accordance with the provisions of the NITDA Act of 2007, would be seen as a violation of the law.

The guidelines, which had been approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its meeting in April 2012, are expected to guide MDAs on the minimum specifications and standards in the procurement of locally assembled computers and other devices.

The government also wants to use the policy to develop the indigenous ICT industry, create wealth and jobs, expand the domestic market for Nigeria information technology products and accelerate IT penetration and adoption in Nigeria.

It is also intended to enhance Universal Access to IT in accordance with Section 6 of the IT Development Act of 2007.

Under the guidelines, MDAs are to obtain a technical advice from NITDA on the configuration of the information system suitable for the purpose intended within 15 days to issuance of tenders by the agencies.

They will incorporate the specifications and configurations as advised by NITDA in their bid and tender documents and without naming the brands of the products, include in the invitation tender, such statements which indicate that the items for bidding shall be locally manufactured or assembled brands.