Nigeria’s federal authorities have designated December 2028 as the definitive date to finalize the country’s migration from analogue to digital television transmission. Charles Ebuebu, the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), confirmed this timeline during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.
Ebuebu explained that this target represents the terminal phase of the transition. He noted that multiple steps must occur before the deadline, as the current effort is only the initial phase. Future stages of this project will address paid broadcasting services, the enhancement of studio infrastructure, and the establishment of dedicated hubs for creators of content.
Regarding audience metrics, the commission has finished a proof-of-concept study involving 7,000 households in Lagos and has initiated similar work in Abuja. The commission plans to announce forthcoming project phases after engaging with relevant groups like the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria to ensure industry cooperation.
Transitioning away from analogue broadcasting is expected to release significant spectrum, which officials view as a vital national resource. This spectrum will be appraised by experts before being assigned to sectors like telecommunications and finance. While exact figures are pending professional valuation, the economic potential is estimated at over 50 billion dollars.
Addressing the issue of outdated broadcasting gear, the commission is currently drafting a policy rooted in international standards. Under existing guidelines, broadcasters are encouraged to decouple content creation from signal distribution, leaving the latter to entities like NIGCOMSAT. The government may also intervene to manage discarded equipment, ensuring that unusable hardware is handled correctly to mitigate environmental risks.
