The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the usage of obsolete equipment by the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). During an inspection tour of the transmitter stations of FRCN and NTA in Kaduna, the minister emphasized the need for innovation, technology, and digital transformation in the broadcasting sector.
Idris, accompanied by the Director-General of NTA, Mr. Salihu Dembos, visited the transmitter stations located in Jaji and Kaita Road. After observing the facilities firsthand, the minister strongly condemned the reliance on outdated equipment for broadcasting purposes.
It is important to note that the FRCN’s transmitter at Jaji was installed over 40 years ago. Some facilities have been there since 1962, Idris highlighted. We cannot go on with this obsolete technology. Technology moves so fast now. So, relying on these pieces of old equipment to broadcast to Nigerians is no longer acceptable.
The minister emphasized the urgent need for investment in public broadcast facilities to keep up with the fast-paced advancements in technology. He expressed the desire for Nigerians to be enlightened about the government’s operations, foster national unity, and promote various sectors such as agriculture, education, and entertainment.
The newest equipment they have in Jaji were installed around 1980 and 1982. This is not acceptable. Technology is moving very fast, and we cannot stay behind. FRCN and NTA cannot stay behind, Idris stressed.
Highlighting the importance of being in line with global technology standards, the minister called for a deliberate effort to ensure that FRCN and NTA adopt the best technological practices.
I assure Nigerians that the new Ministry of Information and National Orientation has its focus on technology and innovation, and of course, we need to invest money here, Idris affirmed. There should also be the right attitude of those manning these equipment so that we can have the desired change.
The minister’s visit aimed to address the technological deficiencies in public broadcast facilities to enhance the dissemination of information, entertainment, and education to the Nigerian populace. Idris emphasized the role of technology in achieving these objectives while urging for immediate action and investment.
With the minister identifying the urgent need for modernization, it is expected that the government will take the necessary steps to ensure that FRCN and NTA are equipped with state-of-the-art broadcasting equipment. This move will not only improve the quality of broadcasting but also enhance Nigeria’s global standing in the media industry.
The quest for innovation and technology in the broadcasting sector is crucial in this digital era, where information is disseminated quickly through various platforms. By embracing modern equipment and practices, FRCN and NTA will be able to effectively connect with their audience and provide them with accurate, timely, and engaging content.
As the Ministry of Information and National Orientation focuses on technology and innovation, Nigerians can look forward to a revamped and technologically advanced broadcasting sector that keeps pace with global standards. The government’s commitment to investing in public broadcast facilities will further contribute to the nation’s development and ensure that citizens receive reliable and quality information.
The era of obsolete equipment in the broadcasting sector is coming to an end, and Nigeria is poised for a technological revolution in public broadcasting.
