The pilot phase of Nigeria’s nationwide programme to transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television (DTT) has been launched in Jos, Plateau State.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said that the switch from analogue to DTT broadcasting is a “monumental event” which will revolutionise “the broadcast landscape and architecture, as well as the local, state and national economy”.
The Federal Government will distribute the 200,000 set-top boxes (STBs) for the pilot phase free of charge, while the Plateau State Government has agreed to buy 300,000 boxes for its citizens.
“We are targeting 30 million viewers across the country, which will make Nigeria the biggest free TV market in the world,” said Alhaji Lai Mohammed at the pilot’s launch in Jos.
“Compared to yesterday when the average Jos person could only watch five TV channels at best, he can now watch 15 TV channels, local and international news as well as local and foreign entertainment. Through the information service, he can also get news about government activities without going on the Internet. While watching a particular channel, he can also know the other programmes available on that channel, using the EPG, or electronic programme guide,” he added.
Nigeria has licensed STB manufacturers to produce boxes locally, after the importation of the initial set of STBs. This will provide mass employment and ensure the transfer of technology within Nigeria, the minister said, adding the additional content needed to fill the digital channels will provide a great creative opportunity for Nigerian youth.
After missing two digital switchover deadlines, Alhaji Lai Mohammed said the government is committed to providing DTT coverage of the entire country by June 2017.
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