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NBC, firm sign agreement on digital broadcasting

By BusinessNews Staff on March 21, 2015

Towards moving the Nigerian broadcast industry from analogue to digital broadcasting, the National Broadcasting Commission has signed an agreement with Inview Technologies Limited for the provision of a National Common Set-Top-Box system.

A statement issued by the Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NBC, Mrs. Maimuna Jimada, in Abuja on Thursday, said the agreement would see Inview Technologies Limited, in collaboration with MTS Communications Limited, make available the software for the provision of key services.

According to the NBC spokesperson, the key services include collection of annual digital content fee, conditional access system, electronic programme guide, push video on direct-to-home television, and interactive advertising.

Jimada said, “The agreement will essentially help the commission give birth to the National Set-Top-Box Platform that will enable commonality for all digital television services in the country.

“Thirteen companies bid for the digital TV system comprising Set-Top-Box software and integrated digital TV broadcast services to deliver a National Common STB/IDTV Control and Consumer Access Fee Mechanism; and critical additional services over the digital terrestrial and satellite networks in Nigeria.

“Inview Technologies got the job through a detailed, meticulous and transparent selection process.”

She pledged that the regulatory agency would meet its obligations to the company, adding that utmost adherence to the terms and conditions of the agreement was required from the firm.

Jimada reiterated the commitment of the NBC to midwifing a smooth switchover to digital terrestrial television broadcasting in Nigeria.

The International Telecommunications Union requires all nations to move from analogue to digital broadcasting by June 17. One of the benefits of the transition is the conservation of spectrum as well as sharper broadcast images.

[Punch]

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