Digital Switch-Over: FG targets 100 free TV channels for 40 million homes
Federal Government Launches Revamped Digital Switch Over Project
The Federal Government has announced a renewed Digital Switch Over (DSO) project, which aims to provide approximately 40 million households across Nigeria with access to as many as 100 free-to-air television channels.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Abuja, Charles Ebuebu, Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), outlined the key features of the revamped initiative. He noted that the new strategy replaces the previous terrestrial transmission model with a satellite-based platform designed to ensure nationwide coverage from its inception.
“Our goal is to reach 40 million TV households—at the very least,” Ebuebu stated, emphasizing the initiative’s intent to expand access to both television services and local content throughout the country.
Previously, the DSO pilot program, which was launched in eight states, offered between 24 to 28 channels, depending on the location. The new satellite system is already broadcasting over 73 channels nationwide, with plans to expand to 100 channels in the coming months.
Ebuebu reflected on the limitations of the earlier terrestrial model, which covered less than a quarter of Nigeria despite significant investments. He mentioned, “After launching in eight states, it became evident that terrestrial broadcasting had substantial infrastructure and coverage challenges.”
He explained that achieving comprehensive nationwide terrestrial coverage would have required the installation of approximately 160 transmission towers, alongside imported equipment and several years for full implementation. “We, therefore, opted for a satellite solution, which provides complete coverage from day one,” he added.
While the NBC will continue to serve as the sector’s regulatory body, the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) will provide both satellite and ground services for the restructured DSO project.
Ebuebu emphasized that this satellite platform permits viewers across the country to access television channels regardless of their location, enhancing national integration and broadening access to information. He described the new satellite-based DSO initiative as a more effective alternative, highlighting its superior reach, clearer picture quality, and increased channel capacity.
