The Association of Licensed Set-Top Box Manufacturers of Nigeria, STBMAN, has warned that Nigeria’s ongoing digital broadcasting transition could trigger widespread disruption if not properly coordinated ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Sir Godfrey Ohuabunwa, the group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene, insisting that the National Broadcasting Commission’s (NBC) current approach risks creating confusion in the country’s information and media space.
While affirming support for Nigeria’s digital migration programme, STBMAN said the process being implemented appears rushed and inconsistent with the 2012 Digital Switchover (DSO) White Paper approved by the Federal Executive Council.
The association argued that what is currently being rolled out is closer to channel aggregation on existing platforms rather than a full Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) migration as originally designed.
It warned that without proper consultation with stakeholders, the transition could lead to signal disruptions, unequal access to broadcast content, and public misinformation—particularly at a time when national communication is crucial ahead of elections.
STBMAN stressed that millions of Nigerians still depend on free-to-air television for news, civic education, and election-related information, adding that any breakdown in the system could deepen public confusion.
The group also raised concerns over what it described as a possible conflict of interest within the regulatory structure, urging the NBC to strictly maintain its role as a regulator in line with global broadcasting standards.
To prevent a crisis, the association called for an emergency national stakeholders’ forum involving broadcasters, signal distributors, technical experts, and manufacturers to reassess the migration framework.
It further recommended an independent legal and technical review of the digital switch process, alongside a review of the existing policy to reflect current technological realities.
Other proposals include nationwide public awareness campaigns on the implications of digital migration and stronger protection for local industry players involved in broadcasting infrastructure.
STBMAN maintained that it is not opposed to reform or innovation but insisted that the transition must be transparent, inclusive, and carefully executed to avoid national setbacks.
It warned that mishandling the process could undermine public communication systems at a sensitive political period and weaken trust in electoral information flow ahead of 2027.