President Bola Tinubu has authorized a monumental N10 billion grant to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), a decision poised to fast-track Nigeria’s transition from analogue to digital broadcasting.
This investment is a crucial step in the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) project, which aims to revolutionize the nation’s media landscape by improving television programming, expanding access, and optimizing the use of valuable spectrum.
The announcement was made by NBC Director-General, Mr. Charles Ebuebu, during a press conference in Abuja, alongside Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC).
Ebuebu highlighted the grant as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to technological advancement and economic growth.
“The grant represents more than just a financial allocation; it signifies a dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s cultural and technological landscape,” Ebuebu stated, emphasizing that the funds will be used to develop diverse TV channels, ensure comprehensive signal coverage, and support various facets of the digital transition.
The DSO project, initially launched in 2008, faced numerous challenges leading to delays in the switch-over process.
This substantial financial boost aims to address these obstacles by funding essential infrastructure such as transponders, audience measurement systems, and digital set-top boxes. Additionally, it will facilitate the development of the FreeTV APP and other key initiatives.
Dr. Maida also underscored the critical role of digital convergence in meeting contemporary media consumption trends and improving real-time interaction, which traditional broadcasting has struggled to deliver.
