Dr. Obiageli Amadiobi, the Director General of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), has issued a stern warning to companies failing to submit their technology transfer agreements for proper evaluation and registration. During a recent familiarization visit to several Information and Communication Technology (ICT) companies in Lagos, Dr. Amadiobi announced that such companies will soon face stiff penalties and prosecution.
Dr. Amadiobi highlighted that NOTAP’s primary mandate is to regulate the inflow of foreign technology through the registration of technology transfer agreements and to promote the development of locally motivated technologies. She expressed concern that some companies are circumventing this process by not registering their agreements, particularly those involving both hardware and software, thereby undermining the system.
“Records indicate that a significant percentage of companies in Nigeria rely on imported technologies worth millions of dollars without NOTAP registration, which is required by law. This practice shortchanges the Nigerian economy,” Dr. Amadiobi stated. She emphasized that NOTAP’s involvement during the technology negotiation stage is mandatory to ensure that Nigerian entrepreneurs secure appropriate technology under the best contractual terms.
The Director General affirmed that while NOTAP is committed to working with compliant companies, it will impose strict penalties on those flouting the rules. “In line with the renewed hope mantra of the present administration, no company will be allowed to avoid registration of their technology transfer agreements with NOTAP,” she declared.
Mr. Adewale Adeyipo, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Computer Warehouse Group (CWG), welcomed the new NOTAP leadership’s energy and enthusiasm. He expressed CWG’s willingness to collaborate with NOTAP to advance the ICT ecosystem. Mr. Adeyipo noted that NOTAP’s initiatives could generate over 2,000 jobs annually within the ICT sector, which is crucial for the nation’s global competitiveness.
He lamented that Nigeria has spent over $987.8 million on digital media subscriptions and downloads, funds that could have been retained within the country with better governmental support for local ICT operators through strategic policies.
In support, Mrs. Ola William, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft Nigeria Plc., praised NOTAP’s efforts in accelerating the ICT sector’s development. She reassured stakeholders that Microsoft remains committed to Nigeria’s ICT growth, debunking rumors of the company’s exit from the country.
This visit marks a significant step towards enforcing compliance and fostering cooperation between NOTAP and the ICT industry to enhance Nigeria’s technological advancement and economic growth.
