Companies that fail to submit their technology transfer agreements to the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) for proper evaluation and registration will soon face severe penalties and prosecution, announced Dr. Obiageli Amadiobi, Director General of NOTAP.
During a familiarization visit to various Information and Communication Technology (ICT) companies in Lagos, Dr. Amadiobi highlighted NOTAP’s role in regulating the inflow of foreign technology through the registration of technology transfer agreements. This initiative aims to promote the development of locally motivated technologies.
Dr. Amadiobi expressed concern that some companies are avoiding the mandatory registration by not distinguishing between software and hardware components in their agreements. This practice, she said, shortchanges the system and the Nigerian economy.
“Available records show that a significant percentage of companies in Nigeria operate on imported technologies worth millions of dollars without NOTAP registration, as required by law,” she stated. “By law, NOTAP must be involved during the technology negotiation stage to ensure that Nigerian entrepreneurs acquire appropriate technology under the best contractual terms, enabling services commensurate with the expenditure.”
Emphasizing the new administration’s commitment to ensuring compliance, Dr. Amadiobi warned companies against circumventing the registration process by lumping hardware and software together. She called for strict adherence to NOTAP regulations, underscoring the importance of protecting the nation’s economic interests.
Mr. Adewale Adeyipo, Managing Director and CEO of Computer Warehouse Group (CWG), welcomed the DG’s proactive stance. He noted that NOTAP’s mandate is crucial for generating over 2,000 jobs annually within the ICT sector, emphasizing the importance of digital penetration for national competitiveness. Adeyipo lamented the $987.8 million spent by Nigeria on digital media subscriptions and downloads, a sum that could have bolstered local economic growth with proper government support for local ICT operators.
Echoing this sentiment, Mrs. Ola William, Managing Director and CEO of Microsoft Nigeria plc, praised NOTAP’s efforts in advancing the ICT sector. She refuted rumors that Microsoft plans to exit Nigeria, affirming the company’s commitment to the sustainable growth of the ICT ecosystem.
