The Director General of the National Broadcasting Corporation, NBC, Charles Ebuebu, has listed the key areas of utilization for the Presidential grant for switching over from Analogue to the Digital Terrestrial Television platform.
He spoke during a joint press conference with the Executives-Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Aminu Maida in Abuja on Thursday.
He announced that under the government of President BolaTinubu, Nigeria is finally embarking on a transformative journey to achieve the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) dividends for the country.
The NBC DG recalled that the process of switching over began fully in Nigeria in 2016, with the Digital Switch Over of Jos, Plateau State but noted that the process was stalled due to enormous challenges.
However, according to him, President Tinubu has approved a grant from spectrum sales by the Federal Government to the National Broadcasting Commission.
To accelerate this process, the DG said the NBC has entered into collaboration with the NCC.
“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,” he said.
“The funds allotted to this 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 the key areas of utilization for the grant to include, “TV Channels: Developing and managing channels that cater to diverse interests, including educational, children’s programming, comedy, shopping, sports, gaming, betting, and local language channels. This ensures a rich and diverse content ecosystem that resonates with our viewers.
“Satellite Capacity: Leasing transponders and establishing a robust satellite backbone to ensure 100% signal coverage across Nigeria. This will expedite the Analog Switch Off and enhance accessibility to FreeTV services nationwide.
“Audience Measurement: Implementing advanced audience measurement tools to provide broadcasters and the industry with detailed insights into viewership patterns, preferences, and demographics.
“Marketing & Publicity: Creating awareness and ensuring a seamless transition through nationwide campaigns that educate the public about the benefits and implications of the Digital Switch Over.
“Content Production Studios: 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.
“Digital Set-Top Boxes: acquisition and distributing hybrid Android/DTH set-top boxes with data connectivity functionalities, positioning them as gateways to a rich and diverse content ecosystem.
“FreeTV APP: Developing a user-friendly mobile application that allows viewers to watch FreeTV channels on handheld devices and access video-on-demand services.
“National Call Centre: upgrading the call centre, equipped with the latest technology to efficiently handle customer queries and ensure the highest standards of service delivery.
“Training & Workshops: Conducting comprehensive training sessions and workshops for stakeholders, emphasizing the benefits of the DSO project and fostering collective progress during the digital transition.”
Speaking further he added that adopting the digital broadcasting standards will align Nigeria with global norms, enhancing our competitiveness and attracting foreign investments.
“Digital broadcasting will bridge the digital divide, ensuring access to vital information, education, and entertainment for remote and underserved communities.”