Abuja: The Federal Government has renewed its push for the full implementation of the Digital Switch Over (DSO) to create jobs, boost local manufacturing, expand broadcasting reach, and drive economic growth. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, highlighted this initiative during the national launch of the DSO project in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the DSO project, managed by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), represents Nigeria’s nationwide transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasting. The project aims to improve broadcast quality, boost the digital economy, and free up spectrum for broadband.
Speaking at the event, the minister emphasized that a fully implemented DSO ecosystem would create jobs, stimulate local manufacturing, expand audience reach, strengthen content production, increase advertising opportunities, and unlock new revenue streams for broadcasters and content creators. He noted the federal government’s directive to the National Broadcasting Commission to ensure the system’s long-term sustainability, increase advertising revenue, and support the program’s viability. The minister acknowledged the achievement would not have been possible without the support, leadership, and commitment of President Bola Tinubu.
The minister elaborated that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda strongly emphasizes digital transformation, economic growth, innovation, and critical national infrastructure. From the onset, President Tinubu has shown a clear commitment to building a modern communications ecosystem capable of supporting development, creating jobs, and fostering global industries. Idris stressed that the DSO project is not merely a technological transition but an investment in Nigeria’s future. He commended the President for his support in transforming Nigeria’s media and broadcasting sectors and lauded the efforts of NBC, NIGCOMSAT, and all stakeholders in the broadcasting community.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, also spoke, noting that the house, under the leadership of Rep. Tajudeen Abass, is advancing reforms to bolster Nigeria’s digital future. He mentioned that the Green Chamber is working on reforms in areas such as stronger data protection and cybersecurity, as well as incentives to expand affordable broadband to underserved communities. Kalu emphasized the mission of promoting local digital content, skill development, and updating spectrum management policies to ensure efficient use of national digital assets across broadcasting, telecommunications, and satellite services. He commended the President for prioritizing a digital-led growth strategy within the Renew Hope Agenda aimed at expanding economic growth and enhancing global competitiveness.