Nigeria's Digital Switch Over targets 40 million households with 100 channels

Nigeria's National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has unveiled an ambitious plan to expand digital television access, targeting 40 million households with up to 100 free-to-air channels through a revamped Digital Switch Over (DSO) project.

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We are gunning for 40 million TV households. Count 40 million homes at a minimum. That’s what we’re targeting.

NBC Director-General Charles Ebuebu stated that the renewed DSO strategy shifts from the previous terrestrial transmission model, which struggled with nationwide coverage and offered only 24 to 28 channels. The new satellite-based platform promises significantly wider reach and increased access to free television services across the entire country from day one.

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We, therefore, decided to go by satellite, which covers Nigeria completely from day one.

Ebuebu explained that the previous terrestrial plan, launched in eight states, achieved less than a quarter of its intended coverage due to infrastructure and terrain limitations, requiring an estimated 160 transmission towers and over three years to complete. In contrast, the satellite approach, utilizing Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) capacity, ensures immediate nationwide coverage.

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We are the regulator of broadcast media in Nigeria, whether radio, TV, online and all of that.

The renewed project is already broadcasting over 73 channels and aims to reach 100 in the coming months. Ebuebu described it as a superior option, offering more channels, clearer picture quality, and greater access to Nigerian content. The NBC continues to regulate broadcasting, while NIGCOMSAT provides the essential satellite and ground services for the DSO, enabling viewers anywhere in Nigeria to access channels from across the nation.

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NIGCOMSAT, on the other hand, is providing satellite services and ground services for the DSO.