FG Inaugurates Digiteam, Sticks to January 1, 2015 SwitchOver

The federal government has inaugurated the Digiteam, a digital committee which will drive the process of transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television transmission in Nigeria.

At the ceremony, Senator  Anyim Pius Anyim, secretary to the Government of the Federation, said that the task before the team was a unique and an important National assignment upon which Government placed a very high premium.

He pointed out that modernisation of infrastructure and services is an integral part of President Goodluck Jonathan administration’s priorities.

He emphasize that the process for selecting the members of the Digiteam took cognizance of their individual capacities and contributions to the industry.

Speaking further, the SGF stated that, “this is a date we cannot afford to make any adjustment towards rescheduling. It is expected that you complete your assignment much earlier than January 2015 because we must catch up with the International requirement.

Responding, Engr. Edward Amana, chairman of the Committee, thanked the Federal Government for the inauguration of the Committee, noting that it was an enormous responsibility that was being placed on the Committee.

Amana promised that the work of the Committee on completion would change the face of broadcasting in Nigeria and usher in a new era of better quality broadcasting, nationwide.

He added that, “the resultant save in spectrum would also generate a lot of funds for government.”

He however admitted that it was not an easy task as the committee was starting work two years behind schedule and has two years to deliver.

Amana requested for support from all stakeholders and promised to deliver on this special national assignment on schedule.

Other members of the  Digiteam are;  Efere Ozoko; Mr. Bruce Ayanote;  Tunde Adegbola; Capt.Talba Alkali; Engr. F.Y.N.;  ACG Umar Iya Abubakar; Mr. Godwin Iheabunike; Engr. Dr. Bashir Gwandu; Mr. Guy Murray Bruce; Mr. Maxwell P.Loko; Engr.Friday Ekwela; Mrs. Veronica Adeyemo; and Dr.(Mrs) M.A. Abu                                       

At the inauguration were Mrs. Omobolanle Johnson; minister of Communication; permanent secretary in the Office of the SGF; Engr.Yomi Bolarinwa;  director general, National Broadcasting Commission, Members of Management of the Commission; and Senior Officers in the Office of the SGF.

At the end of the inauguration, the DIGITEAM returned to its secretariat for its inaugural meeting.

The new deadline set by Nigeria for the final switchover from Analogue to Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting is  January 1st, 2015.