Tinubu approves N10bn for continuation of digital switchover

President Bola Tinubu has approved the sum of N10 billion for the continuation of the digital switchover.

The digital switchover – which commenced under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari – is the migration from analogue television broadcasting technology to digital systems.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Charles Ebuebu, director-general of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), said the grant approved by the president is to build on what has been done so far.

“We are not starting all over. We are enhancing what we had in a different mode. The president has magnanimously given us the sum of N10 billion to kickstart this process,” Ebuebu said.

“This grant is not just a financial allocation; it is a testament to Mr. President’s collective commitment to driving technological advancement, economic growth, and cultural enrichment through the DSO project.

“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, the Commission is in collaboration with the Nigeria Communications Commission.

“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.”

The director-general said the grant would be used to develop television channels, establish satellite coverage across the country, develop audience measurement tools to provide broadcasters information on viewership patterns, and establish content production studios.

Also speaking, Aminu Maida, executive vice-chair of the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), said his organisation would work closely with the NBC on the digital switchover project.