NBC Chief: Creators, Embrace the DSO

Digital Broadcasting Transition Hinges on Robust Content Ecosystem, Says NBC Chief

The successful transition to digital terrestrial television (DTT) in Nigeria, a landmark shift from analogue to digital broadcasting, is intrinsically linked to the availability of compelling and diverse content. This was the central message delivered by the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mr. Chibuike Ebuebu, during a recent induction ceremony for the Electronic Media Content Owners Association of Nigeria (EMCOAN) in Lagos.

Ebuebu emphasized that while the infrastructure for the Digital Switchover (DSO) is being put in place, its ultimate success will be measured by the richness and variety of programming available to Nigerians on the new digital channels. “Without content, the DSO’s success would be incomplete,” he stated, underscoring the critical role of content creators. He issued a direct appeal to content owners, urging them to collaborate closely with the NBC. “We are urging content owners to collaborate with the Commission to ensure Nigeria’s digital future is rich, diverse, and sustainable,” he added.

The NBC is actively developing new platforms to facilitate this content dissemination. The upcoming FreeTV Direct-to-Home (DTH) platform, complemented by its associated mobile applications, is designed to offer content creators unprecedented reach across the entire nation. Beyond geographical coverage, these platforms will provide creators with valuable tools such as advanced analytics to understand audience engagement and opportunities for lucrative brand partnerships, thereby fostering a more commercially viable content industry.

Nigeria’s ambitious DSO project is being spearheaded by the NBC, leveraging the satellite infrastructure of Nigcomsat. The initiative aims to revolutionize television access by delivering over 100 nationwide channels. A key objective is to extend broadcasting services to Nigerians in remote and underserved areas through the deployment of hybrid decoders, effectively tackling long-standing challenges related to infrastructure limitations and funding shortfalls that have previously hampered such advancements. While the project has faced a protracted timeline, with initial discussions dating back to 2012, it has now garnered significant government backing, with a firm launch date set for April 2026.

The NBC chief took the opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions of EMCOAN members to the growth and development of Nigeria’s vibrant creative economy. He encouraged them to embrace the opportunities presented by the DSO, seeing it as a powerful catalyst for promoting local narratives, celebrating Nigerian culture, and showcasing the nation’s creative talent on both domestic and international stages.

The induction ceremony also served as a platform to recognize distinguished individuals within the content ownership sector. During the event, EMCOAN bestowed its highest honours, naming veteran media mogul Wale Adenuga, MFR, as its Grand Patron. Mr. Yinka Adebayo was also appointed as a Patron, recognizing his dedication and contributions to the industry.

The gathering attracted a distinguished assembly of prominent figures from the broadcasting content landscape, including:

• Wale Adenuga
• Opa Williams
• Agatha Amata
• Jibe Ologeh
• High Chief Emeka Ossai
• Debbie Odetayo
• Amina Mohammed
• Frank Elaboya

Representing the NBC at the event was Mr. Ralph Akpan, the Director of the Lagos Zone, who reiterated the commission’s commitment to the DSO. Presiding over the ceremony, EMCOAN president, Mr. Adeniji Omirin, MD of ADNOM Media, issued a call to action for all members. He urged them to fully immerse themselves in the digital switchover process, emphasizing that their active participation is crucial for the collective success of the initiative and the future of Nigerian broadcasting.