By Stanley Iwuoha
As part of its transformative journey to achieve the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) Dividends for Nigeria, the Federal government has approved a N10 billion grant to the National Broadcasting Commission for completion of the project.
The Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission, NBC Mr. Charles Ebuebu, who disclosed this at a joint press conference with the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Aminu Maidain on Thursday in Abuja explained that the grant came from spectrum sales.
He said the grant was not just a financial allocation; but ‘‘a testament to Mr. President’s collective commitment to driving technological advancement, economic growth, and cultural enrichment through the DSO project.’’
Recall that he process to the switching over from Analogue to the Digital Terrestrial Television platform began, fully, in Nigeria, in 2016, with the Digital switched On of Jos, Plateau State (North Central); Abuja (FCT); Gombe (North East); Ilorin (North Central), Asaba Delta State; (South South); Osun (South West); Enugu (South East) and Kano (North West). However, the process has stalled due to enormous challenges.
‘‘Under the visionary leadership of Mr. President, we are embarking on a transformative journey to achieve the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) Dividends for Nigeria. In view of this, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has graciously approved a grant from spectrum sales by the Federal Government to the National Broadcasting Commission.
‘‘This intervention is a testament to the visionary leadership of the President. It is a commitment to achieving a future where every Nigerian, regardless of their location, has access to superior broadband services and is included in the digital economy.’’
To accelerate this process, Ebuebu said the Commission is in collaboration with the Nigeria Communications Commission to reralise the set goal.
‘’This collaboration signifies a strategic alliance and a unified effort to bring about a seamless transition to digital broadcasting and underscores NCC’s determination to support this monumental project and ensure its success’’
Speaking on how to utilize the fund, the NBC boss explained that the funds allotted to the DSO project will be meticulously expended to ensure that each component of the DSO Eco-system contributes significantly to the realization of impactful digital dividends for our country.
He listed some of the key areas of utilization for the grant to include: Developing and managing TV channels that cater to diverse interests; Leasing transponders and establishing a robust satellite backbone to ensure 100% signal coverage across Nigeria; Implementing advanced audience measurement tools to provide broadcasters and the industry with detailed insights into viewership patterns, preferences, and demographics; Creating awareness and ensuring a seamless transition through nationwide campaigns that educate the public about the benefits and implications of the Digital Switch Over and Establishing world-class studios across geopolitical zones in partnership with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), providing local content producers with an inclusive environment to thrive.
Other key areas of focus are: acquisition and distributing hybrid Android/DTH set-top boxes with data connectivity functionalities; Developing a user-friendly mobile application that allows viewers to watch FreeTV channels on handheld devices and access video-on-demand services; upgrading the call center, equipped with the latest technology to efficiently handle customer queries and ensure the highest standards of service delivery and Conducting comprehensive training sessions and workshops for stakeholders, emphasizing the benefits of the DSO project and fostering collective progress during the digital transition.
Affirming the benefits of the transition, the DG said adopting the digital broadcasting standards will align Nigeria with global norms, enhancing her competitiveness and attracting foreign investments, adding that digital broadcasting will bridge the digital divide, ensuring access to vital information, education, and entertainment for remote and underserved communities.
‘For him, the DSO project is a catalyst for Nigeria’s media and socio-economic transformation and will stimulate significant job creation, drive economic growth, and expand the industry. ‘‘The precise and comprehensive audience measurement will enhance marketing efforts and content quality. The support for creative industries and local content will foster cultural preservation and promote Nigerian talent on a global stage.
‘‘As we stand at this pivotal moment in Nigeria’s broadcasting evolution, it is clear that the Digital Switchover (DSO) represents more than just a technological shift—it is a transformative journey for our media industry and our nation as a whole. Our commitment to this project reflects our dedication to a more inclusive, technologically advanced, and globally competitive media landscape,’’ he added.
In his remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Aminu Maida pledged his commission’s commitment to collaborate with NBC in realising the DSO project.
