NBC Launches Free-to-Air Platform for Nigerian Broadcasters

On Thursday, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), under the leadership of Director Dr. Charl Ebuebu, urged members of the Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) to embrace the transition from analog to high-definition (HD) broadcasting. This initiative includes the unveiling of a new free-to-air platform designed to modernize Nigeria's broadcasting ecosystem and expand access to quality content nationwide.

The NBC emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind global standards, as countries like Japan have advanced to ultra-high-definition formats such as 8K. The commission acknowledged past setbacks in the country's digital migration journey, which has seen an investment of 60 billion naira.

The new system will operate on a non-encrypted platform, allowing free access to 100 channels, with viewers required to register basic details for audience measurement. The rollout will occur across six regions, with studios established in Lagos, Abuja, Benin, Enugu, Kano, and Port Harcourt to promote local content and job creation in the creative value chain.