Free TV for Millions of Nigerians as NBC trains experts ahead of digital switchover

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring Nigeria fully transitions from analogue to digital television broadcasting.

Speaking during a training programme for over 50 set-top box installers and technicians in Ibadan, Oyo State, the Head of the Digital Switchover (DSO) Unit and Deputy Director of Public Affairs at NBC, Clementine Usman-Wamba, said the exercise was part of efforts to prepare professionals for the nationwide rollout of the renewed Digital Switchover programme.

She explained that analogue television broadcasting will be phased out by 2028, making it necessary to train qualified installers who will support the transition process across the country.

According to her, the training is being conducted in partnership with Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat) to equip installers with the skills needed to properly align and track signals for the new digital television platform.

Usman-Wamba said installers play a key role in the success of the project because many Nigerians will require technical assistance to connect to the free-to-air television service.

She noted that the government recently launched a Direct-to-Home (DTH) platform, which allows households to access television channels without paying subscription fees.

With a decoder and satellite dish connected to the NigComSat signal, users can enjoy multiple channels free of charge.

She added that NBC is training installers nationwide to ensure the project reaches homes across the country and that viewers can easily access the service.

According to her, many people cannot carry out the installation themselves because of the technical knowledge required, making trained installers an important part of the initiative.

Participants at the training praised the programme, describing it as an opportunity to gain valuable skills while creating jobs for young Nigerians.

One of the trainees, satellite installer Raji Taoheed Olanrewaju, said the training broadened his knowledge and would help create employment opportunities for many youths.

He added that the free television service would benefit low-income earners by giving them access to numerous channels without monthly subscriptions.

Another participant, Gbenga Oluduro, said the programme helped him better understand the technical aspects of installing digital decoders and satellite dishes.

The NBC said the training exercise is part of broader efforts to ensure a smooth transition to digital broadcasting and expand access to quality television services across Nigeria.