The Federal Government (FG) on Monday linked the upgrade of public broadcasting facilities to Nigeria’s digital broadcasting transition, with Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris saying that new investments at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and other government media organisations are laying the foundation for a modern information system.
He said this after inspecting a newly completed television studio at the NTA headquarters and the ongoing renovation of the National Press Centre in Abuja.
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The development is considered significant as improved broadcast infrastructure is intended to support the Digital Switch Over (DSO) programme and improve the quality of public service broadcasting.
The inspection follows the relaunch of the DSO programme, which is aimed at replacing analogue broadcasting with digital transmission.
The Federal Government is investing in equipment, studios and media facilities as part of that effort, while also seeking to improve the working environment for journalists and strengthen public communication.
Broadcast reforms tied to digital switch
Idris said the upgraded facilities represent more than new buildings and equipment, noting that they form part of a long-term plan to modernise Nigeria’s broadcasting sector.
“The Digital Switch Over and the investments in modern broadcast infrastructure are opening a new chapter for Nigeria’s information sector. By the time this reform programme is completed, Nigerians will witness a truly transformed public broadcasting system,” he said.
He noted that the newly completed television studio at the NTA headquarters ranks among the best in Nigeria and among the finest in Africa.
The minister said similar investments are being made in the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, the Voice of Nigeria and the News Agency of Nigeria.
He explained that the programme also includes the procurement of modern broadcast equipment for NTA stations nationwide.
Idris said the reforms are not limited to physical infrastructure. He said the government also wants better programme content, improved professionalism, innovation and stronger human capacity within public media organisations.
Press centre upgrade aims to support journalists
After visiting the NTA, the minister inspected work at the National Press Centre located at Radio House in Abuja.
He said the facility is being redesigned into a modern media hub with high-speed internet and improved working spaces for journalists covering government activities and national events.
“The National Press Centre must fulfil its mandate as Nigeria’s foremost media hub. It is being redesigned to provide journalists with a conducive environment and modern facilities to carry out their professional responsibilities effectively,” he said.
Idris directed contractors handling the project to complete it within the approved schedule. He also said he would return to inspect the project before it is commissioned.
The minister linked the renovation to the Federal Government’s plan to improve the way information is produced and shared through public institutions.
He also said President Bola Tinubu is investing in workers as well as infrastructure, noting that the administration recognises the importance of improving staff welfare in the information sector.
During the inspection of the NTA headquarters, Idris commended the management and staff of the organisation for supporting the ongoing reforms.
He said the newly completed studio reflects the President’s commitment to modernising public broadcasting facilities and improving the quality of services provided by government-owned
Federal Government believes the combination of digital broadcasting, upgraded equipment, modern studios and improved media workspaces will strengthen public service broadcasting and improve access to credible information.
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