In Nigeria, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) – the body that regulates the country’s broadcast media sector), in collaboration with Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), has announced the launch of “The Big Picture”, a flagship project under Nigeria’s renewed Digital Switchover (DSO) programme. According to the promoters, the initiative aims to transform Nigeria’s broadcasting sector through sovereign satellite infrastructure.
NBC’s Director-General, Barr Charles Ebuebu, and NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, emphasised the strategic significance of leveraging satellite technology to extend digital access nationwide.
BMA understands that at the centre of the initiative is NigComSat-1R, Nigeria’s only communications satellite, which will power Direct-to-Home (DTH) broadcasting across the country. This move reduces dependency on terrestrial transmission towers and is expected to accelerate digital rollout by more than 65%, offering a cost-effective and future-ready broadcasting model.
Over 10 million Nigerian households with satellite-compatible televisions or decoders will gain immediate access to free-to-air digital channels. Next-generation hybrid devices, combining satellite with internet streaming, will cater to Nigeria’s youth population — over 60% under 25. These devices will feature apps, voice search, parental controls, and integration with an electronic programme guide (EPG), ensuring an engaging user experience.
The Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) and local content creators will provide 60% of the programming for the planned 120-channel platform. In contrast, local manufacturers are set to produce around five million devices annually — potentially creating over 20,000 jobs.
Aligned with the government’s “By-Nigeria” policy, this initiative aims to promote local innovation, strengthen economic resilience, and broaden access to digital content. The Big Picture positions Nigeria at the forefront of broadcast modernisation in Africa.
