NBC studying other climes to avoid mistakes in DSO as FG confers with StarTimes
As time ticks closer to the international terminal date for all countries to migrate from analogue to digital terrestrial TV broadcasting, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has disclosed that it is taking its time in studying the experiences of nations that have successfully transited to Digital Switch over (DSO).
It would be recalled that Nigeria’s previous two attempts were frustrated by paucity of fund and organizational logistics, but the agency has assured that June 20 this year will be a reality.
A top official of the agency who spoke with Business Hilights in a telephone interview said “NBC is mindful of the importance of the DSO to Nigeria and that is why we are taking our time studying the experiences of other nations to learn from their processes and procedures”.
“As you are aware, our DG, Mallam Modibbo Kawu, is now in China with the Minister attending the 7th African regional digital development seminar in Beijing.
“We do not want to give Nigeria a digital transition experience that will found wanting. That is why we are doing our best not just to meet time, but to give Nigeria the best DSO.
Our correspondent gathered further that while the Beijing Summit advances, the leader of Nigeria delegation and Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed met with the chairman of StarTimes Digital TV group, MR. Pang Jin Chin and reached a number of understandings in a bid to achieve a seamless transition from analogue to digital terrestrial TV experience.
The Minister noted that the growing relationship between Nigeria and China has made StarTime, a strong pillar in the digital process in Nigeria and urged StarTimes to extend its services across the country.
Responding, Jin Chin described Nigeria as the most important partner with his company and assured continued support in the drive for successful DSO.
This year summit will look at ways of promoting digitization process in Africa
Also speaking, the Chairman, Senate Com on Information and National Orientation, Senator Suleiman Adoke said lawmakers are ready to make necessary laws that will facilitate quality content development in Nigeria which will drive the emerging DSO.
