Nigeria launches nationwide digital television migration after years of delays
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
Nigeria has officially launched its nationwide transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasting, a project that has faced over a decade of delays and partial rollouts. The Digital Switch Over DSO program, first conceived in the mid-2000s, aims to transform the country's media landscape and create new economic opportunities. The new system introduces a hybrid broadcasting model, combining digital terrestrial transmission, satellite distribution via Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited NIGCOMSAT, and internet-enabled streaming through a new "FreeTV" mobile application. Officials state the system will offer up to 100 free-to-air channels, accessible via set-top boxes, smart televisions with built-in satellite tuners, and the mobile app. Nigeria's Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, highlighted that the initiative is part of a broader national digital infrastructure strategy, leveraging NIGCOMSAT's infrastructure for improved access to information, educational content, and greater inclusion. Managing Director of Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited, Jane Egerton-Idehen, confirmed the shift from analogue to digital broadcasting after 15 years, emphasizing its free-to-air and widely accessible design. While set-top boxes range from N5,000 to N20,000, discussions are ongoing for interventions for lower-income households. The Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Charles Ebuebu, noted a str
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Mrs. Angela Emuwa, Chairman of PUNCH Nigeria Limited, and Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC, were among 10 women honored at the third Extraordinary Women Advancing Healthcare EWAH Awards in Lagos. Mrs. Emuwa received recognition for her contributions to healthcare development, innovation, and community impact, particularly in deepening access to healthcare in Nigeria. Other awardees included Njide Ndili, President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria; Viviane Ihekweazu, Managing Director of Nigeria Health Watch; and Dr. Amina Mohammed-Baloni, former Kaduna State Commissioner for Health. The EWAH Awards, which originated from the Commonwealth Institute, aim to acknowledge the impact of women in the health sector, provide visibility for their work, and encourage their efforts to strengthen healthcare systems and bridge the gender gap in healthcare leadership. Mrs. Emuwa stated that the award affirmed PUNCH's commitment to advancing healthcare in Nigeria through investigative journalism, focusing on areas such as maternal and child health, immunization, and public health awareness. She emphasized PUNCH's role in influencing policies and holding institutions accountable. Clare Omatseye, Chairman of the Board of Directors, EWAH Award Nigeria, highlighted that the awards seek to inspire transformation and meaningful contributions. Dr. Bisi Bright, Regional Representative for EWAH Awards Africa,
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