Nigeria eyes global chip market

Nigeria and Africa are poised to make a significant impact in the semiconductor and microchip manufacturing industry, according to Ola Fadiru, the CEO of Chip Lab. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Fadiru highlighted the potential for Nigeria to become a key player in both the design and fabrication stages of semiconductor production. With a focus on training the youth in state-of-the-art technology and establishing fabrication plants, Fadiru believes that Nigeria has the raw materials and skilled workforce necessary to drive the semiconductor revolution. While countries like China and the United States currently dominate the global semiconductor market, Fadiru sees opportunities for Nigeria and other African nations to focus on designing and fabricating chips for applications that utilize older nodes. By capitalizing on this niche market and leveraging strategic partnerships with global semiconductor companies, African companies like Amal Technologies and Semiconductor Technologies Limited are already making strides in semiconductor production. Fadiru emphasized the importance of legislation, such as the Nigerian Chips Act, in supporting and growing the semiconductor ecosystem in Nigeria and across Africa. By implementing policies that support new players, upskilling initiatives, and education programs, Fadiru believes that Nigeria can build a robust semiconductor industry that caters to the African market's specific needs.