STBMAN Accuses NBC of Regulatory Abuse, Seeks Tinubu Intervention
Set-top box manufacturers accuse NBC of regulatory abuse that could further derail Nigeria's 17-year-delayed digital switch-over. STBMAN claims NBC ignores stakeholder recommendations and attempts to undermine court order FCT/HC/GAR/CV/442/2024, warning this erodes investor confidence and violates President Tinubu's 'Nigeria First' policy.
The group specifically criticizes NBC's reported plan to import hybrid set-top boxes from China, which local manufacturers say undermines their investments despite operating in uncertain conditions. STBMAN emphasizes that Nigeria, which began DSO discussions in 2008, now lags behind countries that once looked to it for guidance.
STBMAN calls on President Tinubu to intervene by directing NBC to halt all licensing, certification, and importation of set-top boxes pending court case resolution. The association threatens legal action including contempt proceedings if issues aren't addressed. How should Nigeria balance digital transition speed with supporting local manufacturing and regulatory compliance?