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N2.5Bn DSO Allegation: Our Story By Pinnacle Communications

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Dipo Onifade, chief operating officer, Pinnacle Communications
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Pinnacle Communications Limited, the private licensed signal distributor for the Federal Government’s approved implementation of the Transition from Analogue to Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) Broadcasting in Nigeria, has absolved the firm of alleged complicity and misapplication of money meant for the implementation of the digital switch-over (DSO) project.

The management of the company in a statement issued over the weekend, dismissed as untrue, false and unsubstantiated the media reports linking it with the allegation that N2.5 billion seed grant released to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for the project had been misapplied. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) was reported s investigating the allegation.

In the statement by Dipo Onifade, chief operating officer, Pinnacle Communications stated that the firm has always been transparent in all its dealings with the NBC and it has discharged its obligations on the digital switch-over project in compliance with the terms and conditions of the contract.

A statement by the company read:

ICPC Investigates NBC, DSO :
Statement by Pinnacle Communications Limited

The Management of Pinnacle Communications Limited is constrained to issue this statement as a matter of record in response to the flurry of news reports in the media on Thursday evening copiously quoting  a statement allegedly attributed to the spokesperson of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Rasheedat Okoduwa disclosing that the Commission was investigating the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission over the “misapplication of N2.5 billion seed grant released to the agency by the federal government for its digital switch-over programme” for which the Commission has so far quizzed the Director General, Dr. Ishaq Moddibbo Kawu, and other top management staff of the agency over their alleged involvements in the misapplication of the fund”.

 

In view of the references made to Pinnacle Communications Limited in connection with the investigation and the necessity of providing the correct account of the involvement of Pinnacle Communications Limited in the issues raised, which were deliberately omitted  and/or distorted in the ICPC spokesperson’s alleged statement as widely reported in the media, we hereby state as follows:

 

  1. Pinnacle Communications Limited is the only private licensed signal distributor for the Federal Government approved implementation of the Transition from Analogue to Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting in Nigeria in accordance with the 2012 Government White Paper section 11.2 (a) which approved that “more than one signal distributor be licensed in addition to NTA, the public licensed signal distributor. Another signal distributor should be licensed immediately.”

 

  1. In the year 2014, Pinnacle Communications Limited emerged successful bidder out of 9 companies after a rigorous public tender and full compliance with due process. Pinnacle Communications was licensed following payment of the stipulated license fees to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), NOT NIGERIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION as stated in the alleged press release of ICPC spokesperson.

 

  1. Since then, Pinnacle Communications Limited has been a major facilitator of the Digital Switch Over (DSO) implementation process in Nigeria, notably as the broadcast signal distributor for the National Launch of the DSO in Abuja in 2016 at its state-of-the-art Broadcast Centre on Mpape Hill, performed by His Excellency, Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Company was also responsible for the Kaduna Digital Broadcast Signal Distribution Centre commissioned in 2017 by the Kaduna State Governor, His Excellency, Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai.

 

  1. This factual background to the involvement of Pinnacle Communications Limited in the DSO project in Nigeria is contrary to the alleged statements attributed to the ICPC spokesperson that the company was “fraudulently recommended to the Minister of Information and Culture for the release of N2.5 billion against the guidelines contained in the White Paper” and further reference to Pinnacle Communications as “an unqualified company.” The 2014 licensing of Pinnacle Communications in the DSO predates the appointment of the current DG of NBC in 2016.

 

  1. The DSO is all about the transition from Analogue to Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT).

Broadcast Engineering is a field in which Pinnacle Communications Limited has earned recognition and patronage for more than two decades of expertise and dependability of world class service and installations across Nigeria.

 

  1. Neither the DSO nor Pinnacle Communications Limited has anything to do with “migration of telephone lines from analogue to digital platforms” as the ICPC spokesperson is alleged to have stated.

 

  1. Pinnacle Communications maintain that the facts and clarifications provided above sufficiently define the context and extent of its involvement in the implementation of the DSO program in Nigeria and the nature of its working relationship with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).

 

  1. While noting that the ICPC spokesperson allegedly stated that the Commission was investigating “misapplication of N2.5 billion seed grant released to the agency (NBC) by the federal government for its digital switch-over programme” we wish to clearly emphasize that Pinnacle Communications Limited has not and cannot as a licensee of NBC trespass into the statutory functions of the NBC and/or the Federal Ministry of Information on the implementation of the DSO program.

 

  1. To this extent therefore, all transactions between NBC and Pinnacle Communications have always been transparent and within the official approved operational guidelines and regulations as processed and executed by the NBC and in compliance with the terms and conditions of the license for signal distribution that Pinnacle Communications duly obtained.

 

  1. Having made all the necessary statements in response to the ICPC’s investigations and taking cognisance of the pendency of Suit No FHC/ABJ/CS/779/2018 that Pinnacle Communications instituted in July 2018 in the Federal High Court, Abuja on a related matter against ICPC and 2 others,(NOT RELATED TO STOPPING ANY INVESTIGATION BY ICPC) Pinnacle Communications considers it unprofessional, ill-advised, injudicious, prejudicial and unfair for the ICPC spokesperson to make as alleged random references to disjointed portions of comprehensive submissions to its investigators, clearly skewed to portray Pinnacle Communications Limited as complicit in the alleged or any misapplication” of funds by the NBC, over which Pinnacle Communications have no responsibility or control. Pinnacle Communications challenges the ICPC spokesperson, if the alleged press release was indeed made by her, to publish the full statements made to the ICPC by Pinnacle officials.

 

  1. Moreover, if truly made, the ICPC statement went beyond mere announcement of on-going investigations into the realm of unsubstantiated incriminations in the fashion of trial-by-media that invariably paints a premature and amateur picture of guilt, prior to judicial determination.

   

  1. In the circumstance, Pinnacle Communications Limited shall refrain from further clarification of the muddled statement allegedly issued by the ICPC spokesperson in its firm belief that judicial process will provide the appropriate and fair opportunity to comprehensively and decisively prove its hard-earned reputation as a world class company that, unlike the ICPC spokesperson, upholds integrity, ethics and legality in all its transactions, in accordance with international best practices.
  2. Pinnacle Communications wishes to assure NBC, stakeholders in the DSO, its staff, international and local business associates and numerous clients that it remains committed to meeting all its obligations notwithstanding the malicious statement by the ICPC spokesperson.

DIPO ONIFADE

COO

PINNACLE COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED

 

 


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ACAMB Champions Bankers Wellness with Aerobics Fitness Session

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As part of its commitment to promoting a healthier and more resilient banking workforce, the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) is organizing a special Aerobics Fitness Session on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at the Lagoon Front of the Eko Atlantic City.

The session is open to all bankers and marketing communication professionals within the industry and will feature a lineup of fun and energizing activities aimed at boosting physical and mental wellbeing.

With stress levels and burnout on the rise in high-pressure sectors like banking, ACAMB is taking, as it has done over the years, proactive steps to encourage lifestyle habits that support overall wellness and productivity.

Participants will begin the morning with a body warm-up and short walk to get their energy flowing, followed by an exciting dance aerobics session designed to elevate heart rates and lift spirits.

The day will continue with interactive fitness games that promote movement and team bonding, and will wrap up with a friendly but motivating fitness challenge to inspire healthy competition and personal bests.

“Bankers are vital to the financial ecosystem, and their wellness must be a priority,” said Rasheed Bolarinwa, President of ACAMB.

“This aerobics session is a powerful way to foster a culture of health, team bonding, and preventive care. It reflects our belief as ExCO that a strong mind and body, are essential for long-term professional excellence.”

The session is expected to kick off early in the morning to take advantage of the fresh morning air, allowing participants to start their weekend with energy, movement, and connection. It also presents an opportunity to unwind and build camaraderie amongst colleagues outside the traditional office setting.

This initiative is one of several wellness-focused programms ACAMB is rolling out to reinforce the importance of employee wellbeing in corporate and marketing communication and the broader banking ecosystem.

The Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) is the recognized professional association for marketing communications and public affairs executives in Nigeria’s banking industry.

ACAMB drives ethical communication standards, promotes internal and external stakeholder engagement, and supports member banks in advancing reputation, trust, employee growth and wellbeing.


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DStv Makes History: Inducted into Brand Africa Hall of Fame as Africa’s Most Admired Media Brand

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DStv, Africa’s leading entertainment platform, has been officially recognised as the #1 Most Admired African Media Brand in the Brand Africa 100 | Africa’s Best Brands 2025 rankings.

This recognition also sees DStv inducted into the prestigious Brand Africa Hall of Fame, a distinction reserved for iconic African brands that have significantly shaped the continent’s global image and competitiveness over the years.

The announcement was made at a high-profile ceremony hosted at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) in Addis Ababa, where leaders from across the African media and branding landscape gathered to honour the continent’s most impactful brands.

Launched in 1995, DStv has evolved from a digital satellite television pioneer into a content powerhouse, transforming the African viewing experience through continuous innovation, investment in local content, and a deep commitment to telling African stories.

“This honour reflects the incredible journey we’ve taken with our audiences across Africa. Being named Africa’s most admired media brand and joining the Brand Africa Hall of Fame is not just a celebration of where we’ve come from—it’s a reaffirmation of where we’re going.

“Our commitment to local storytelling, cultural authenticity, and innovation remains stronger than ever.

“We are proud to be a brand that not only entertains but uplifts and connects Africans through stories that matter.” States Calvo Mawela, Group CEO of MultiChoice.

Each year, the Brand Africa 100 survey identifies the most admired brands across the continent, based on independent research conducted in over 30 African countries, representing over 85% of Africa’s population and GDP, with more than 150,000 brand mentions and 5,930 unique brands.

The rankings are compiled through a rigorous process led by research partners including GeoPoll, Kantar, Integrate, and Analysis, making it the only pan-African, research-led and non-commercial brand equity study of its kind.

DStv’s induction into the Hall of Fame further cements its position not just as a media brand, but as a cultural force that continues to shape narratives and inspire pride across Africa. Through its investments in local productions, partnerships with African creators, and focus on quality storytelling, DStv remains at the forefront of Africa’s growing creative economy.

DStv was also honoured with the same top recognition in 2024, reinforcing its consistent excellence and enduring connection with audiences across Africa. Since its launch 30 years ago with just 16 channels, DStv has evolved into a dynamic content powerhouse, offering a rich mix of local productions, global entertainment, and integrated streaming options.

Today, it serves millions of households across the continent, delivering hundreds of channels and platforms that reflect the diversity, creativity, and aspirations of African viewers.


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The Silent Killer of Great Companies: A Guide To Why Your Processes Will Break (and How to Fix Them) 

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By Tolulope Obianwu

Every high-growth company experiences a moment when its engine sputters—quietly at first. Emails slip through cracks, customers wait too long, and once-smooth systems start breaking under pressure. This rarely looks like failure; it feels like chaos.

Tolu Obianwu

The truth? Your team didn’t fail. Your process did.

More accurately, the process you never designed to scale.

I’ve led operations and strategy at some of Africa’s fastest-growing fintech companies, building teams and systems that power complex payment infrastructure. And I’ve seen it repeatedly: velocity hides inefficiency—until it doesn’t.

This isn’t just a fintech problem. It’s a scaling problem. And if you’re a founder, operator, or builder, this article is your early warning: poor process doesn’t announce itself. It accumulates, silently, until your best people are fighting fires they didn’t start.

So, before things break, let’s talk about what makes processes fail, and what it takes to build operational structures that scale with your ambition.

  1. DO NOT Confuse Speed with System: Startups are built on hustle. That’s part of the magic. But hustle without design leads to fragile outcomes. What works when you’re a 5-person team becomes a burden when you’re 50. Manually sorting payments, ad-hoc decisions, Slack approvals; these shortcuts become operational debt.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Build systems early. They don’t have to be perfect, but they must be repeatable. Even lightweight process maps give your team breathing room and build investor confidence.

  1. DO NOT Build Around Individuals: We romanticise “indispensable” team members; the only person who knows how X works. But hero-driven execution is unsustainable. When your process depends on one person being online, awake, or available, you’re not building a company. You’re gambling on burnout.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Document workflows, spread context, and make knowledge transfer part of your onboarding and offboarding. Structure should outlive talent.

  1. DO NOT Mistake Micromanagement for Control: I’ve seen it too often: leaders respond by inserting themselves into every decision when processes start breaking down. It’s understandable, but counterproductive. Micromanagement is not a fix. It’s a symptom.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Create trust frameworks. Use process audits, not pressure. Empower teams with clear guardrails, not constant approvals. The goal of an exemplary process isn’t control – it’s clarity.

  1. DO NOT Design for the Happy Path Only: Most processes look beautiful on paper until real users, real edge cases, and real stress tests come in. If your refund process fails when the volume spikes or your reconciliation breaks on public holidays, that’s not a people problem. It’s a design flaw.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Anticipate failure. Ask “What could go wrong?” Run simulations. Processes must bend without breaking. That’s true resilience.

  1. DO NOT ignore the Role of Culture: Even the best-designed processes die in hostile environments. If your culture rewards shortcuts, ignores documentation, or treats processes as bureaucracy, nothing will stick.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Make ‘process’ a language, not a punishment. Celebrate people who fix broken steps. Tie operational excellence to career growth. Culture is what makes a process sustainable.

  1. DO NOT Launch Processes Without Data Loops: If you’re not tracking turnaround times, errors, or usage, you’re not managing a process; you’re just hoping it works.

DO THIS INSTEAD:
Instrument every stage. Set KPIs that matter. Let data flag inefficiencies before customers feel them. A great process isn’t just followed – it’s monitored.

Final Thoughts

The truth is: every fast-growing company outgrows its old ways of doing things. There comes a time when velocity alone can’t carry the vision anymore. That’s inevitable. What isn’t inevitable is being caught off guard when it happens.

If you’re building for scale, process isn’t a bottleneck; it’s your runway. The best systems don’t slow people down; they let good teams move faster, with clarity and confidence.

Don’t wait for failure to expose what structure could have prevented it. Build deliberately. Review often. Automate what you can. And above all, make sure your process is strong enough to carry the weight of your ambition.

Because in the long run, it’s not speed that wins.

It’s the ability to move fast, without breaking yourself.

Tolulope Obianwu is a highly experienced professional in operations and technology strategy and currently is Head, Core Operations at TeamApt Ltd


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