NCDMB's Ernest Nwapa on strategies to strengthen content

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has been at the forefront of facilitating the development of strategies to strengthen Nigerian content in various sectors, particularly in the oil and gas industry. With the sixth annual Practical Nigerian Content Forum bringing together key stakeholders to discuss the impact of Nigerian content on the economy, CNBC Africa sat down with Ernest Nwapa, the Pioneer Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, to delve deeper into the practicality and effectiveness of the Nigerian Content Policy. Nwapa highlighted the challenges and opportunities that have arisen due to political changes and fluctuations in the price of crude oil, shedding light on the need for renewed energy and focus in advancing the agenda of local content. The appointment of a new CEO who has been involved in the program for a significant period signals a commitment to building on past achievements and expanding initiatives on a global scale through the Global Local Content Council (GLCC). The emphasis on capacity development, mindset transformation, and creating an enabling environment for local production and manufacturing showcases Nigeria's potential for growth and self-sufficiency in various industries. Nwapa also emphasized the need to measure success not just in terms of investments and projects but in the number of skilled individuals empowered to participate in the economy and the transformation of Nigeria into a hub for indigenous production and innovation. The integration of local content advantages in a challenging economic environment is a key focus for the NCDMB, as they strive to make the cost of business operations in Nigeria more competitive and sustainable. The path towards standardization and benchmarking against global industry leaders is a gradual but crucial step in positioning Nigeria as a viable player in the international market. Despite facing disparities in capacity compared to established manufacturing nations, Nigeria's dedication to building a solid foundation for local content development sets the stage for long-term growth and prosperity.