Clearer indication has emerged that even though nationwide transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television (DTT) may not feasible at a time, come next 18 days, that is June 17, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) said it has worked out a systematic roll-out that will see regional switchover in batches.
Already, some parts of the North are on Digital Switch Over (DSO) including Plateau State and Federal Capital territory (FCT). Details from the Commission show that Enugu, Gombe, four others are underway in next phase including the state of Osun.
Business Hilights recalls that only few member countries of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) had met DSO while some that launched had technical issues which are still frustrating their services.
Explaining more on this in a recent interview, the Head, Public Affairs at NBC, Mrs. Maimuna Jimada said the commission is taking its time in studying other climes where the deal was very successful so as to avoid the sad experiences of some other countries that switched over and failed.
According to her, the main focus was the benchmark date of June 17, 2017, which was agreed upon by West African countries for the switchover from analogue to DTT platforms.
To limit chances of errors, she said NBC is in constant engagement with critical stakeholders on how best to deliver the DSO seamlessly in Nigeria.
Some of the stakeholders involved include the media, legislators, government officials, broadcasters, educational institutions, marketers and suppliers of broadcast equipment, and the international community.
