Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, has officially initiated the contract to restore the Voice of Nigeria (VON) shortwave transmission using the powerful 250 KW TX2 transmitter at the Lugbe transmitting station in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
During the launch event, the minister highlighted this achievement as a significant milestone, emphasising its importance for Nigeria and the entire African continent.
This restoration initiative is poised to enhance Nigeria’s international broadcasting capabilities, improve cross-border communication, and solidify the nation’s presence within Africa’s media landscape.
“With the revival of Africa’s largest and most potent transmitting station, now upgraded with modern, digitally compatible technology, this project will redefine terrestrial broadcasting. Upon completion, the reactivated VON transmitters will elevate VON to a respected status in global radio broadcasting,” he stated.
The minister expressed his aspiration for Voice of Nigeria to maintain its role as a pro-Nigeria and pan-African broadcaster, committed to showcasing positive narratives from Nigeria and across Africa.
The minister, represented by Mr. Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam, the ministry’s permanent secretary, commended President Tinubu for his dedication to upgrading Nigeria’s information sector and broadcasting infrastructure to meet global standards.
“As we take this significant step in launching the contract for restoring Voice of Nigeria’s shortwave transmission with the 250KW superpower transmitter, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his vision and dedication to modernising the Voice of Nigeria’s broadcasting infrastructure,” he added.
The minister urged the VON technical team to diligently supervise the project’s execution and called on the contractors to adhere to the contract timeline while ensuring the highest quality standards.
“I encourage the contractor to execute the project on time while maintaining excellence and visible quality. The VON technical team must exhibit diligence and proficiency in overseeing this initiative and ensuring its sustainability through effective maintenance practices,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Mallam Jibrin Baba-Ndace, VON’s director-general, emphasised that this project will establish the organisation as a leading voice in African broadcasting.
“We are making history today with the backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he stated.
While acknowledging VON’s robust digital media presence, Baba-Ndace pointed out that the revival of terrestrial broadcasting is crucial for securing a competitive edge in the African media landscape, highlighting that their rotating antenna is unique in Africa.
“We take pride in being entrusted with the revival of this critical institution by the President,” he added.
Mr. Hassan Fawaz, Managing Director of Confax Nigeria Limited, the project contractor, assured the timely completion of the rehabilitation of the 250-kilowatt superpower rotating transmitter.
“The advantage of shortwave technology is its extensive coverage. The quality and scale of the equipment, including the antenna setup, are impressive and will undoubtedly make every Nigerian proud,” he stated.
“We will do everything we can to support you in achieving a successful outcome,” he concluded.
The minister reiterated VON’s role in advancing Nigeria’s foreign and public diplomacy and upholding its democracy, expressing confidence that the station will continue to fulfil its mission as a pro-Nigeria and pan-African outlet dedicated to sharing positive stories about Nigeria and Africa.
