The Federal Government on Wednesday launched Nigeria’s Digital Switch Over (DSO) programme, saying the initiative will extend digital television services to 40 million homes and unlock over N600 billion in economic opportunities.

The launch in Abuja marks Nigeria’s transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasting after years of delays.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, described the rollout as a major milestone in the country’s digital transformation agenda and a step towards building a $1 trillion economy.

He said the programme would improve access to information, educational and cultural content, while ensuring that citizens in remote communities are not left behind.

Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Charles Ebuebu, said the project goes beyond broadcasting, describing it as a new communications architecture that would create opportunities for content creators, broadcasters, manufacturers and investors.

He said the initiative will strengthen media plurality, expand consumer choice and improve spectrum efficiency.

Managing Director of NigComSat Ltd, Jane Egerton-Idehen, said the DSO programme would generate jobs, boost the advertising industry and support national development.

She noted that the transition would deliver better picture quality, clearer sound and more content choices for viewers.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the launch as the culmination of years of efforts by government and industry stakeholders.

He said a fully implemented digital broadcasting ecosystem would stimulate local manufacturing, expand audience reach, strengthen content production and create new revenue streams for broadcasters.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, said digital infrastructure had become as important as roads, power and ports in driving economic growth and national competitiveness. (Daily Trust)