The Federal Government of Nigeria launched its Digital Switch Over programme on June 17. Officials rolled out FreeTV, a national digital television platform that provides households with free access to more than 100 channels. The initiative marked the country’s formal transition from analogue to digital broadcasting.
Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris addressed stakeholders at the launch in Abuja. He described the programme as a transformative step that would deliver quality broadcasting services across the nation. Idris added that the project would create jobs and expand opportunities in the advertising and creative sectors.
The government targeted 40 million homes with the rollout. Officials projected that the initiative would unlock over N600 billion in economic opportunities.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani noted that the switchover was built on investments in sovereign digital infrastructure. He stated that Nigeria joined nations that embraced modern broadcasting to serve their people.
FreeTV offers national, regional and state channels that feature news, sports, movies, music and educational content. Households can access the service through compatible decoders with existing televisions. The platform uses satellite, terrestrial signals and a mobile app.
Mohammed Idris emphasised the broader impact. He said the project went beyond economic gains and aimed to create a more informed, connected and inclusive society. The launch aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The development came after years of delays in Nigeria’s digital transition. Government officials expressed confidence that the programme would improve picture quality and widen access, especially in rural areas. Stakeholders pledged continued collaboration for successful nationwide implementation.
