Local Manufacturers Lament NBC Handling Of Digital Switch-Over Project

The Association of Licensed Set-Top Box Manufacturers of Nigeria (STBMAN) has expressed concern over the National Broadcasting Commission’s (NBC) has alleged repeated violations of due process in managing the country’s Digital Switch Over (DSO) project.

In a statement released yesterday in Abuja, STBMAN chairman, Sir Godfrey Ohuabunwa, said the NBC’s actions were slowing down Nigeria’s transition from analogue to digital broadcasting and discouraging local investors who have committed resources to the project.

Ohuabunwa said Nigeria began serious discussions on DSO in 2008, yet 17 years later, the country has made little progress, while nations that once sought Nigeria’s assistance have completed their transitions.

“STBMAN has repeatedly called for the protection of local manufacturers, strict compliance with the federal government’s White Paper on DSO, and full respect for the rule of law, but these calls have been ignored,” Ohuabunwa said.

The NBC’s alleged plan to import hybrid set-top boxes from China has been criticised by STBMAN, which said the move disregards the heavy investments already made by licensed Nigerian manufacturers and contradicts President Bola Ahmed’s directive to prioritise locally made products.

“The manufacturers have invested in equipment, technology upgrades and workforce training, expecting government support and policy stability,” he added.

STBMAN appealed to President Tinubu to direct the NBC to halt all new licensing, permits, or certifications relating to set-top box importation or manufacturing until the pending court case is concluded.

The association warned that it may pursue contempt proceedings if the NBC continued to undermine a subsisting court order, emphasising the need for collaboration, respect for policy guidelines and adherence to the law to achieve a successful digital transition.