The Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr. Charles Ebuebu, has announced the approval of ₦10 billion by President Bola Tinubu to expedite the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) process.

Speaking at a joint press conference alongside Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Ebuebu emphasized that the grant reflects the President’s commitment to advancing technology, fostering economic growth, and enriching cultural experiences through the DSO project.

To accelerate the process, the NBC has partnered with the NCC in a strategic alliance to ensure a seamless transition to digital broadcasting. This collaboration underscores the NCC’s determination to support this significant project and guarantee its success.

“His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has generously approved a grant from the proceeds of spectrum sales by the Federal Government to the National Broadcasting Commission,” Ebuebu stated. “This grant is more than a financial allocation; it is a testament to the President’s commitment to driving technological progress, economic development, and cultural enrichment through the DSO initiative.”

He further noted that this intervention showcases the President’s visionary leadership, aiming to create a future where every Nigerian, regardless of location, has access to superior broadband services and is included in the digital economy.

Ebuebu explained that the funds would be utilised to ensure that each component of the DSO ecosystem contributes significantly to delivering impactful digital dividends for the country.

Highlighting key areas where the funds will be applied, Ebuebu said, “We will focus on developing and managing channels that cater to diverse interests, including educational content, children’s programming, comedy, shopping, sports, gaming, betting, and channels in local languages. This will create a rich and varied content ecosystem that resonates with our audience.

“Additionally, we will lease transponders and establish a robust satellite infrastructure to ensure 100% signal coverage across Nigeria. This will expedite the analogue switch-off and enhance accessibility to FreeTV services nationwide.

“We also plan to implement advanced audience measurement tools to provide broadcasters and the industry with detailed insights into viewership patterns, preferences, and demographics.

“Furthermore, nationwide campaigns will be launched to create awareness and ensure a smooth transition, educating the public about the benefits and implications of the Digital Switch-Over.”

The funds will also be used to establish world-class studios across geopolitical zones in partnership with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), providing local content producers with an inclusive environment to thrive.

Ebuebu added that the funds would be allocated towards acquiring and distributing hybrid Android/DTH set-top boxes with data connectivity features, positioning them as gateways to a rich and diverse content ecosystem.

He also mentioned the development of a user-friendly mobile application that allows viewers to watch FreeTV channels on handheld devices and access video-on-demand services, as well as upgrading the call centre with the latest technology to efficiently handle customer queries and ensure top-notch service delivery.

Comprehensive training sessions and workshops will be conducted for stakeholders, emphasizing the benefits of the DSO project and fostering collective progress during the digital transition.

Ebuebu also noted that adopting digital broadcasting standards will align Nigeria with global norms, enhancing the country’s competitiveness and attracting foreign investments.

He maintained that digital broadcasting would bridge the digital divide, ensuring access to vital information, education, and entertainment for remote and underserved communities.

“The DSO project is a catalyst for Nigeria’s media and socio-economic transformation. It will create significant job opportunities, drive economic growth, and expand the industry.

“Precise and comprehensive audience measurement will enhance marketing efforts and content quality, while support for creative industries and local content will promote cultural preservation and showcase Nigerian talent on a global stage.

“As we stand at this pivotal moment in Nigeria’s broadcasting evolution, it is clear that the Digital Switch-Over (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 creating a more inclusive, technologically advanced, and globally competitive media landscape,” he concluded.