The Association of Licensed Set-Top Box Manufacturers of Nigeria, STBMAN, has expressed deep concern over what it describes as repeated violations of due process by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) in the management of the country’s Digital Switch Over (DSO) project.
This is contained in a statement signed by its Chairman, Sir Godfrey Ohuabunwa, in Abuja.
The ststement says the actions of the NBC are slowing down Nigeria’s transition from analogue to digital broadcasting and discouraging local investors who have committed resources to the project.
It states that the recent statement issued by the Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria, IBAN, highlights long-standing problems in the DSO process.
According to Ohuabunwa, Nigeria began serious discussions on DSO as far back as 2008, yet 17 years later, the country has made little progress, while nations that once sought Nigeria’s assistance have completed their own transitions.
It notes that it has repeatedly called for three key issues to be respected which includes the Protection of local manufacturers, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Nigeria First” industrial policy, Strict compliance with the Federal Government’s White Paper on DSO and full respect for the rule of law, which it describes as essential for investor confidence.
According to the statement these calls have been ignored.
The statement also criticizes the Commission’s alleged plan to import hybrid set-top boxes from China.
It says this move disregards the heavy investments already made by licensed Nigerian manufacturers and contradicts the President’s directive to prioritise locally made products.
According to the statement, agencies of government should be working to strengthen local industries, not sidelining them.
It stresses that manufacturers have invested in equipment, technology upgrades and workforce training, expecting government support and policy stability.
The statement therefore appeals to President Tinubu to urgently intervene and direct the NBC to halt all new licensing, permits, or certifications relating to set-top box importation or manufacturing until the pending court case is concluded.
It adds that the appeal is anchored on patriotism and the need to restore order to the DSO programme, adding that Nigeria cannot achieve a successful digital transition without collaboration, respect for policy guidelines, and adherence to the law.
The statement reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Federal Government but warned that it may pursue contempt proceedings if the current situation continues.
It accuses the NBC of taking steps that undermine a subsisting court order in Suit No. FCT/HC/GAR/CV/442/2024, warning that no agency of government is permitted to act against an active court directive.
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