Nigeria Set For Digital TV Revolution As FG Fixes June 17 Launch Date
After years of delays and missed deadlines, Nigeria is finally on the brink of a full transition from analogue to digital broadcasting, with the Federal Government confirming that the long-awaited Digital Switch Over (DSO) project will officially launch on June 17, 2026.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this during an inspection tour of facilities at NIGCOMSAT located at the Obasanjo Space Centre alongside the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Charles Ebuebu, and the Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT, Jane Egerton-Idehen.
Idris described the development as a “new dawn” for Nigeria’s broadcasting industry, saying the initiative reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to reforming critical sectors of the economy.
According to the Minister, the digital platform will transform television broadcasting by delivering clearer HD signals, wider access to free TV channels, and improved audience measurement for broadcasters and advertisers.
“This is going to bring a lot of advantages to broadcasters, viewers and advertisers,” he said, adding that the new technology would provide accurate data on viewership and content consumption patterns.
The Director-General of NBC, Charles Ebuebu, revealed that no fewer than 100 channels will be available at launch, with plans to expand further as more content creators join the platform.
He added that the upgraded system would leverage satellite technology and mobile applications to ensure nationwide accessibility beyond the pilot cities previously covered.
Also speaking, Jane Egerton-Idehen said the partnership between NIGCOMSAT and NBC would strengthen digital broadcasting services across Nigeria and improve operational efficiency in the sector.
The ministerial delegation also included heads of key government media agencies such as the Nigerian Television Authority, Voice of Nigeria, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria and the National Orientation Agency.
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