President Bola Tinubu has approved a N10 billion grant for the National Broadcasting Commission to advance Nigeria’s transition from analogue to digital broadcasting.
This significant funding aims to expedite the Digital Switch-Over project, which will enhance television programming, broaden nationwide access to TV services, and allocate valuable spectrum for other technological uses.
This was disclosed the NBC Director-General, Mr. Charles Ebuebu during a joint news conference in Abuja on Thursday, alongside Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Communications Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, according to Nairametrics.
“Under the visionary leadership of Mr President, we are embarking on a transformative journey to achieve the DSO dividends for Nigeria.
“As you are all aware, the process of switching over from analogue to digital terrestrial television platform began, fully, in Nigeria, in 2016. However, the process has stalled due to enormous challenges.
“In view of this, the President has graciously approved a grant of N10 billion from spectrum sales by the Federal Government to the NBC,” Ebuebu said.
NBC DG emphasized that the grant is more than just financial support; it reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to advancing technology, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing Nigeria’s cultural landscape through the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) project.
He detailed that the grant will be strategically utilized to achieve DSO objectives by developing and managing television channels that cater to diverse interests and ensuring widespread access to programming across Nigeria.
He added that the funds will also be used to lease transponders and establish a robust satellite backbone, essential for achieving 100% signal coverage nationwide, including in remote and underserved areas.
Furthermore, the grant will support audience measurement, marketing, content production, the distribution of digital set-top boxes, and the launch of the FreeTV APP.
Ebuebu highlighted that adopting digital broadcasting standards will align Nigeria with global norms, enhance competitiveness, and attract foreign investment.
Meanwhile, Dr. Aminu Maida, discussed the impact of media convergence, which integrates traditional and digital media. He noted that approximately 90% of media consumption has shifted to digital platforms, primarily through the internet.
He emphasized the NCC’s crucial role in the DSO project, particularly in developing content that meets the demands of digital production and real-time interaction, areas where traditional broadcasting has been lacking.
The Digital Switch-Over (DSO) project in Nigeria is a long-standing initiative aimed at transitioning from analogue to digital broadcasting.
Launched by the Federal Government in 2008, the project seeks to enhance television programming quality and quantity, expand access to TV services, and free up spectrum for other uses.
