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FG Approves N10Bn to Boost Digital Switch-over

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President Bola Tinubu has approved a grant of N10 billion for the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to embark on a transformative journey to achieve the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) dividends for Nigeria.

The Director-General of NBC, Mr Charles Ebuebu, made this known on Thursday in Abuja at a joint news conference with the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), Dr Aminu Maida.

DSO is a project to transition from analogue to digital broadcasting.

Launched by the Federal Government in 2008, the DSO project aimed to enhance the quality and quantity of television programming, increase access to television services, and free up spectrum for other uses.

Addressing the newsmen, the NBC boss explained that, to achieve the desired results in the DSO journey, the commission would collaborate with the NCC and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

“Under the visionary leadership of Mr President, we are embarking on a transformative journey to achieve the DSO dividends for Nigeria.

“As you are all aware, the process of switching over from analogue to digital terrestrial television platforms began fully in Nigeria in 2016. However, the process has stalled due to enormous challenges.

“In view of this, the President has graciously approved a grant of N10 billion from spectrum sales by the Federal Government to the NBC,” Ebuebu said.

He added, “This grant is not just a financial allocation; it is a testament to Mr President’s collective commitment to driving technological advancement, economic growth, and cultural enrichment through the DSO project.

“The areas of utilising this grant include developing and managing channels that cater for diverse interests, leasing transponders, and establishing a robust satellite backbone to ensure 100 per cent signal coverage across Nigeria.

“Others are audience measurement, marketing and publicity, content production studios, digital set-top boxes, FreeTV APP, and conducting comprehensive training sessions and workshops for stakeholders,” Ebuebu said.

According to him, adopting the digital broadcasting standards will align Nigeria with global norms, enhance competitiveness, and attract foreign investments.

Ebuebu added that digital broadcasting will bridge the digital divide, ensuring access to vital information, education, and entertainment for remote and unserved communities.

He also said that traditional platforms would not fade out but adopt the new digital system because the ecosystem is huge and has a lot of dividends.

“With the introduction of DSO, a lot of people are going to be introduced to a new set of skills; there is technology; you are going to learn to use software in production; and all of that, and we are partnering to ensure it is done right.”

Also speaking, Maida said convergence is the new way to go in digital operations.

“Convergence has changed the media landscape. About 90 per cent of the media we consume today is not traditional broadcast.

“This convergence has given us the option to consume media in so many ways, but primarily through the internet and as a regulator for communications.

“It is very important that the NCC be part of this journey.

“To do justice to the DSO project, there is a need to create content with the notion that the mode of production has changed and that the majority of this content is going to be consumed on demand,” he said.

Maida added that contents in DSO, required some levels of interaction in real-time, which the traditional broadcast did not allow or do optimally.

 


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51-Year-Old QNET User Breaks World Record with 20 Back Handsprings

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QNET, a global wellness and lifestyle company, proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of Anup Debnath, a 51-year-old fitness enthusiast, ardent user of QNET products, and resident of New Jersey, USA, who recently attempted to set a Guinness World Record as the oldest person to perform continuous back handsprings.

Debnath’s feat underscores the power of balanced health and wellness to maintain peak physical performance at any stage of life.

On October 19th, at the Marlboro Township Recreation Center, Debnath completed 20 continuous back handsprings, a remarkable testament to his strength, stamina, and unwavering discipline.

His journey back into gymnastics after nearly 27 years highlights the potential of a balanced lifestyle supported by QNET’s wellness products, demonstrating that age is no barrier to achieving extraordinary physical goals.

“To accomplish something like this at my age takes intense dedication, a consistent fitness regimen, and harmony of mind, body, and spirit,” Debnath shared.

“For the past two years, I’ve relied on the Amezcua Chi Pendant 4 with Amezcua Resonance Technology (ART) to keep me centered and energized.

Paired with other Amezcua products, like the Bio Disc 3, which energizes my food and structures the water I consume, giving me mental and physical balance, and the Bio Light 3, which aids in recovery by alleviating pain and discomfort after intense training, these products enhance my overall well-being and empower me to push my limits.”

QNET’s Chief Marketing Officer, Trevor Kuna, extended his heartfelt congratulations: “Anup’s achievement is extraordinary, and we are incredibly proud to have played a part in his journey.

“His belief in QNET’s Amezcua products reflects our mission—helping people achieve balance and wellness in every aspect of their lives.

“Anup’s story is a testament to discipline, resilience, and holistic well-being. We celebrate his inspiring feat and his commitment to greatness.”

QNET’s Amezcua Chi Pendant 4, which utilizes ART, is designed to support wearers in achieving holistic well-being by harmonizing physical, emotional, and mental energies.

Through Debnath’s achievement, QNET encourages individuals to explore how Amezcua technology can support their wellness journey at any stage in life, empowering them to achieve their own physical and mental potential.


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House of Reps Calls for N500bn Recapitalization of DisCos

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House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to enforce a minimum capital base of N500 billion for electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to continue operations.

The lawmakers argue that only financially robust DisCos can ensure efficient service delivery and maximum consumer satisfaction.

This resolution was passed during Wednesday’s plenary following a motion by Ibrahim Isiaka, a representative from Ogun State.

Isiaka criticized the current operations of DisCos, describing their actions as a threat to the economic stability and welfare of Nigerians.

He highlighted consumer complaints regarding the replacement of electricity meters, noting that DisCos often demand additional payments despite consumers already financing the installation of meters.

Isiaka expressed concern over the financial burden this places on households and businesses struggling with economic challenges.

The motion also raised issues of consumer trust, alleging that DisCos operate with impunity and disregard for consumer rights, despite oversight from the regulatory authorities and the House Committee on Power.

The lawmakers unanimously adopted the motion through a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

They urged the Ministry of Power to take immediate steps to address the “reckless actions” of DisCos, labeling them as non-state actors threatening Nigeria’s economy.

The House further mandated the recapitalization of DisCos to a minimum of N500 billion, insisting that only financially capable operators should be allowed to continue providing electricity services.

Additionally, the House Committee on Power was directed to investigate the activities of DisCos to ensure accountability and protect consumer rights.


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Chinenye Anuforo of The Sun Newspaper Honored for Excellence in ICT Journalism

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Chinenye Anuforo, a distinguished journalist from The Sun Newspaper, has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to ICT journalism in Nigeria.

Chinenye Anuforo receiving the ATAEx Award presented by Mr. Gbolahan Awonuga, executive secretary of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON)

Last week, she received the ICT Innovation Storyteller Award at the Africa Tech Alliance Excellence (ATAEx) Awards, celebrating her ability to craft compelling narratives that highlight the complexities and potential of the ICT sector.

“Chinenye’s dedication to her craft is evident in her insightful analysis and engaging storytelling,” said Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, co-convener of the ATAEx Awards.

“Her work has consistently illuminated the significant impact of technology on society, making her a deserving recipient of this award.”

The accolades continued as Anuforo was named the ICT Reporter of the Year at the Africa Digital Awards (ADA) just a week later.

This prestigious award further cements her status as a leading voice in the ICT industry.

Mr. Tayo Adewusi, Publisher/Coordinator of NIICF & ADA, who presented the award, praised Anuforo’s role in shaping public discourse on ICT issues.

“Her reports have not only informed but also inspired, making her a true champion of digital innovation,” he said.

Expressing her gratitude, Chinenye Anuforo stated, “I am deeply honored and humbled to receive these awards.

“I am grateful to my editors at The Sun Newspapers for their unwavering support and to the organizers of the ATAEx Awards and Africa Digital Awards for recognizing my work.

“It is a privilege to contribute to the growth of the ICT sector in Nigeria through journalism.”


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