The federal government has renewed its push for full implementation of Digital Switch Over (DSO) to create jobs, boost local manufacturing, expand broadcasting reach and drive economic growth.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known on Wednesday at the national launch of the DSO project in Abuja.

The DSO project, managed by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), is Nigeria’s nationwide transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasting.

The project aims to improve broadcast quality, boost the digital economy, and free up spectrum for broadband.

Speaking at the event, the minister said a fully implemented DSO ecosystem will create jobs, stimulate local manufacturing, expand audience reach, strengthen content production, increase advertising opportunities, and unlock new revenue streams for broadcasters and content creators.

“This is why the federal government directed the National Broadcasting Commission to continue the long-term sustainability of the system, increase advertising revenue, and support the long-term viability of this programme.

“We depend on continued cooperation among our partners, investors and industry that reflects Nigeria’s image,” he said.

The minister said the achievement would not have been possible without the support, leadership, and commitment of President Bola Tinubu.

According to him, the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr Tinubu’s administration plays a strong emphasis on digital transformation, economic growth, innovation, and the critical national infrastructure.

“From the onset, President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated a clear commitment to building a modern communications ecosystem capable of supporting development, creating jobs and global industries,” he said.

The minister stressed that the DSO project is not simply a technological transition but an investment in Nigeria’s future.

Mr Idris commended the president for his support for the transformation of Nigeria’s media and broadcasting.

He also lauded the NBC, NIGCOMSAT, and all stakeholders in the broadcasting community who had contributed to the nation’s broadcasting journey.

The minister assured that the government would continue to support the broadcast industry, strengthen local capacity, encourage innovation, promote investment, and ensure that Nigeria fully realised the enormous opportunities offered by digital broadcasting.

In his remarks, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu said the house, under the leadership of Tajudeen Abass, was advancing reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s digital future.

According to him, the Green Chamber is advancing reforms in the areas of stronger data protection and cybersecurity as well as incentives to expand affordable broadband to underserved communities.

He said the mission was to promote local digital content and skill development and update the spectrum management policies to ensure efficient use of national digital assets across broadcasting, across telecommunication, and across satellite services.

He commended the president for prioritising a digital-led growth strategy within the Renew Hope Agenda aimed at expanding economic growth and threatening global competitiveness.

(NAN)