The Federal Government has officially launched a free television platform aimed at providing access to digital broadcasting services for low-income Nigerians.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the initiative as a major investment in the country’s future and a significant step in the transformation of the broadcasting sector.
According to the minister, the launch marks an important milestone in Nigeria’s broadcasting history and reflects the commitment of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to digital transformation, innovation, economic growth and the development of critical national infrastructure.
He stated that the Digital Switch Over (DSO) project goes beyond a technological transition and represents a crucial effort to modernise Nigeria’s broadcasting industry.
Idris said the achievement was made possible through the support and leadership of President Tinubu.
He disclosed that extensive consultations were held with stakeholders across the broadcasting value chain before the launch of the platform.
The consultations involved broadcasters, signal distributors, set-top box manufacturers, content producers, NIGCOMSAT, DigiTeam, the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria and other industry stakeholders.
According to him, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to the successful implementation of the programme despite holding differing views on certain aspects of its execution.
The minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting indigenous technology, supporting local manufacturers and ensuring that Nigerian creativity remains at the centre of the broadcasting ecosystem.
He noted that the Digital Switch Over project is expected to create opportunities for Nigerian businesses, innovators and workers while expanding access to digital television services.
Idris subsequently performed the formal launch of the Digital Switch Over platform on behalf of the Federal Government and President Tinubu.
The government expressed optimism that the initiative would contribute to the growth of the broadcasting industry and improve access to information and entertainment for Nigerians across the country.
