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  • Peter Obi Claims Government Is Targeting His Life, Businesses

    Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has alleged that the Federal Government is deliberately frustrating his businesses and personal activities, claiming the actions amount to a personal campaign against him.

    Obi made the remarks during an interview on With Chude, where he spoke about what he described as growing pressure on his private life and means of livelihood.

    ‘They are after my life’

    Expressing his concerns, the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate said he believes the government is intentionally making it difficult for him to carry out his legitimate business activities.

    “They are after my life. Every single thing I do for a living, this government is deliberately frustrating it. The government is attacking me personally. They’re not even providing me with things I should be entitled to.”

    Obi, however, did not provide specific examples of the alleged actions or identify the government agencies involved during the interview.

    Political tensions ahead of 2027

    The comments come amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general election, with Obi remaining one of Nigeria’s most prominent opposition figures.

    In recent months, he has repeatedly criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over issues including insecurity, the economy and governance, while calling for reforms to improve the country’s leadership and public institutions.

    Mixed reactions

    Obi’s claims have sparked debate on social media, with supporters describing his remarks as evidence of political intimidation against an opposition leader.

    Others challenged the allegations, urging him to provide evidence to support the claims, while some argued that any grievances should be addressed through the appropriate legal channels.

    As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency had not issued any official response to Obi’s allegations.

  • AGF: PFIPC Has No CBN Account, Received No Government Funds

    The Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) has clarified that the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) does not operate any account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and has not received government funds.

    The clarification comes as investigations continue into the activities of the council, which the Presidency has repeatedly described as a non-existent government agency.

    OAGF addresses funding claims

    In a statement, the OAGF said the PFIPC “has no operational account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)” and “received no funds.”

    The clarification follows growing public scrutiny over how the council reportedly operated from an office within the Federal Secretariat in Abuja, employed staff and carried out official activities despite being disowned by the Presidency.

    Presidency disowned council

    The controversy began after the Presidency announced that the PFIPC was not a recognised government institution.

    Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga had alleged that Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew falsely claimed to have been appointed by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, using forged documents.

    Adeyemi was subsequently arrested and charged with forgery and impersonation before being granted bail. He has denied the allegations and insists his appointment was genuine.

    Budget allocation raises questions

    The controversy deepened after reports revealed that the PFIPC appeared in the 2026 Appropriation Act with a budget allocation exceeding ₦1.3 billion for personnel, overhead and capital projects.

    The revelation has triggered calls for investigations into how the agency was included in the national budget despite the Presidency’s position that it does not exist.

    Civil society organisations and political groups have also demanded greater transparency over the approval process and possible involvement of public officials.

    Questions remain

    While the OAGF maintains that no government funds were released to the PFIPC through the CBN, questions remain over how the council allegedly financed its operations, maintained offices and conducted official activities.

    The matter is expected to remain under investigation as legal proceedings against Adeyemi continue.

  • South Africa Rejects Compensation Demand, Asks Nigeria to Identify Alleged Drug Dens

    The South African government has ruled out paying compensation for illegal structures occupied by foreign nationals, while calling on the Nigerian government to provide information on locations allegedly used for drug-related activities by Nigerians in the country.

    The remarks were made by South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni during a briefing on government policy regarding foreign-owned assets and informal settlements.

    Government insists only legal properties are protected

    Ntshavheni said foreign nationals who legally own assets in South Africa are free to sell them before leaving the country, stressing that only properties recognised under South African law qualify for legal protection.

    According to her, houses are registered with the Deeds Registry, vehicles through the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS), while businesses are registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission.

    “If you own a property in South Africa, it’s registered. If it’s a house, it’s registered with the Deeds Register. If you own a car, it’s registered in the NATIS system. If you own a business, it’s registered with the CIPC,” she said.

    She maintained that informal settlements and illegal structures do not qualify as recognised properties under the law.

    Calls for information on alleged drug locations

    The minister also called on the Nigerian government to provide information on places allegedly being used for drug-related activities.

    “We’ll be interested to know where the drug dens of Nigerians are so they can show us where they’ve been holding the drugs so that we can clean the drugs in South Africa quite urgently,” she said.

    Ntshavheni added that authorities would continue clearing illegal settlements in line with court judgments and warned that no compensation would be paid for structures considered unlawful.

    “There’s no compensation that will come from government,” she said, adding that owners of legally registered properties remain free to dispose of their assets through South Africa’s property market before leaving the country.

    The comments come amid ongoing discussions over immigration enforcement, illegal settlements and crime involving foreign nationals in South Africa.

     

  • FG to Replace NYSC Khaki Uniform with Locally Made Adire Fabric

    The Federal Government has announced plans to replace the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) khaki uniform with locally produced Adire fabric as part of ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning the 53-year-old scheme.

    Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, disclosed the development during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Thursday.

    ‘Let’s put our money back into Nigeria’

    Olawande said the new uniform would be produced in Nigeria to support local industries and reduce government spending on imported materials.”It’s Adire… Let’s put our money back into the country. Adire is being produced in Nigeria. We have them in Ogun, we have them in Kwara, we have textile industry,” the minister said.

    Adire is a traditional tie-dye fabric widely produced in parts of southwestern Nigeria and has become one of the country’s most recognised indigenous textiles.

    Part of wider NYSC reforms

    The proposed uniform change is part of a broader reform package recently approved by the Federal Government for the NYSC.

    The reforms include improved orientation camp standards, a redesigned graduation ceremony to replace the traditional Passing Out Parade, a new uniform design and measures aimed at making the scheme more skills-driven and employment-focused.

    The government said the reforms are intended to modernise the NYSC while promoting local production and economic growth.

    Announcement sparks reactions

    The proposal has generated mixed reactions on social media.

    While some Nigerians welcomed the move as a way of supporting local textile manufacturers, others questioned whether changing the uniform should take priority over issues such as corps members’ welfare, security and improved allowances.

    The Federal Government has yet to announce when the new Adire uniform will be introduced.

  • World Bank Approves Fresh $1.25bn Loan for Nigeria Despite Rising Debt Concerns

    The World Bank has approved a fresh $1.25 billion loan for Nigeria under its Nigeria Actions for Investment and Jobs Acceleration (NAIJA) programme, despite growing concerns over the country’s rising debt burden.

    The approval was announced on Wednesday alongside the launch of the World Bank’s new Country Partnership Framework for Nigeria covering 2026 to 2032, which is designed to promote private sector-led growth and create more jobs.

    Loan to Fund Key Reforms

    According to the World Bank, the financing will support reforms aimed at deepening capital markets, modernising the digital economy, expanding electricity access, strengthening agriculture, improving revenue generation and reducing trade barriers under the ECOWAS and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) frameworks.

    The programme also targets electricity access for 32 million Nigerians, broadband connectivity for 58 million people, improved health and nutrition services for 40 million citizens, and support for 9.5 million farmers.

    World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, said the initiative is intended to ensure that recent economic reforms translate into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.

    “The recent macroeconomic gains have been critical to help stabilise the economy. Translating improved macroeconomic conditions into better living standards will require addressing the structural constraints to spur private sector investment and job creation,” he said.

    Debt Concerns Persist

    The approval comes as concerns continue to grow over Nigeria’s increasing reliance on external borrowing, with many Nigerians questioning why rising debt levels have not resulted in significant improvements in living standards.

    According to the Debt Management Office (DMO), Nigeria’s debt to the World Bank rose from $17.81 billion at the end of 2024 to $19.89 billion by December 2025, representing an increase of $2.08 billion.

    The World Bank now accounts for 38.36 per cent of Nigeria’s total external debt of $51.86 billion.

    The latest facility is the second-largest World Bank loan secured under President Bola Tinubu’s administration after the $1.5 billion economic reform financing approved in June 2024.

     

  • Federal Executive Council Approves First Major NYSC Reform in 53 Years, Replaces Military DG With Civilian

    The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a major reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), replacing the scheme’s military leadership with a civilian and introducing changes aimed at repositioning it for youth empowerment and national development.

    The decision marks the first comprehensive review of the NYSC since it was established 53 years ago.

    Civilian to Lead NYSC

    Under the approved reform, the operational leadership of the NYSC will now be headed by a civilian instead of a serving military officer.

    Despite the change, the Federal Government said the military will continue to provide security for corps members across the country.

    Act to Be Amended

    To implement the reforms, the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth have been directed to amend the NYSC Act and its regulations.

    The amendments will provide the legal framework required to enforce the newly approved changes.

    Focus on Skills and Economic Growth

    The Federal Government said the reforms are designed to transform the NYSC into a skill-driven, productivity-focused and youth empowerment institution.

    According to the government, the new direction aligns with its broader economic agenda of building a $1 trillion economy by equipping young Nigerians with practical skills and creating more opportunities for productivity.

    The NYSC was established on May 22, 1973, following the Nigerian Civil War to promote national unity by deploying graduates to serve in states outside their regions of origin.

  • “To Start Akara Business Doesn’t Take Much,” Oluremi Tinubu Tells Nigerians

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has defended the Federal Government’s empowerment programmes, saying grants provided to small business owners are designed to give Nigerians hope amid the country’s economic challenges.

    Speaking during a recent engagement, the First Lady said the administration had chosen to provide grants rather than loans to support petty traders and vulnerable citizens.

    ‘We Are Giving Hope’

    Sen. Tinubu said starting small businesses such as frying akara or roasting corn requires limited capital and can provide a pathway to financial independence.

    “We’re trying to give hope. To start akara business doesn’t take much; to start roasting corn doesn’t take much. We didn’t give them a loan; we gave it to them as a grant,” she said.

    She added that the government had continued to support Nigerians through initiatives within its capacity.

    “What is within our hands, I have given, and I keep giving,” she said.

    Renewed Hope Empowerment Programme

    The First Lady’s remarks come under the Renewed Hope Initiative, which has distributed grants to women and small business owners in several states.

    Recent interventions include financial support for women in Benue, Ekiti and Kaduna states, where beneficiaries received grants to strengthen their small businesses without repayment obligations.

    The programme focuses on women, petty traders and other vulnerable groups engaged in micro-enterprises.

    Mixed Public Reactions

    The comments have generated mixed reactions on social media.

    Supporters described the grants as meaningful support for grassroots entrepreneurs struggling with the high cost of living.

    Critics, however, argued that the assistance is insufficient given rising inflation, high fuel prices and the broader economic pressures facing many households and businesses.

    Some questioned whether small-scale grants alone can adequately address Nigeria’s current economic challenges.

    Government Defends Reform Agenda

    The Tinubu administration has consistently maintained that its economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate adjustments, are necessary for long-term economic stability despite the short-term hardship experienced by many Nigerians.

    Sen. Tinubu has repeatedly urged citizens to remain patient while the government continues implementing programmes aimed at reducing poverty and promoting economic inclusion.

  • Top 10 News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. Death Toll Rises to Nine in Lagos Building Collapse

    The death toll from the collapse of a three-storey shopping and residential building in the Alakija area of Satellite Town, Lagos, has risen to nine. Emergency responders have rescued 26 people alive as search operations continue at the site along Old Ojo Road.

    The rescue effort involves LASEMA, NEMA, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the police and local volunteers. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse, while the incident has renewed concerns about compliance with building regulations across Lagos.

    2. FG Hands Over Enugu International Airport to Private Operator

    The Federal Government has officially handed over the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu to Aero Alliance Limited under a public-private partnership arrangement aimed at modernising the airport.

    The concession covers the financing, rehabilitation, expansion, operation and management of the airport. Officials say the project is expected to improve passenger experience, create jobs and strengthen economic activities in the South-East while serving as a model for future airport concessions across Nigeria.

    3. Nigeria Sanctions Six Individuals, Three Entities Over Terrorism Financing

    Nigeria has placed six individuals and three organisations on its terrorism financing sanctions list as part of efforts to disrupt funding channels linked to terrorist activities. The action includes the freezing of affected accounts and stricter monitoring by financial institutions.

    Authorities say the sanctions form part of broader counter-terrorism measures designed to strengthen national security and comply with international financial regulations. Investigations are continuing, with further enforcement actions expected where necessary.

    4. Oyo Extends Curfew in 10 LGAs

    The Oyo State Government has extended by 24 hours the curfew imposed in 10 local government areas following recent security incidents around communities bordering the Old Oyo National Park.

    Residents have been urged to comply with the restriction as security agencies intensify operations across the affected areas. The government says the measure is necessary to restore normalcy and support ongoing efforts to rescue abducted victims and prevent further attacks.

    5. Tinubu Assures Families of Abducted Oyo Pupils

    President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that security agencies are working to secure the safe return of teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State, promising that those responsible will be brought to justice.

    The President said security operations have been intensified in collaboration with state authorities. His assurance comes amid growing public concern over school security and renewed calls for stronger protection of rural communities.

    6. Lagos Issues Fresh Ebola Advisory

    The Lagos State Government has urged residents of Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki and Epe local government areas to remain vigilant against Ebola, despite no confirmed outbreak in the state.

    Health officials have stepped up surveillance, public awareness campaigns and emergency preparedness measures. Residents have also been advised to maintain proper hygiene, report suspected symptoms early and cooperate with health authorities as preventive measures continue.

    7. Six Nigerians Selected in 2026 NBA Draft

    Nigeria recorded another milestone in international basketball after six players of Nigerian origin were selected during the 2026 NBA Draft. The selections further highlight the country’s growing influence in global basketball development.

    Sports stakeholders have described the achievement as a boost for Nigerian basketball and a strong case for greater investment in grassroots talent development. The players are expected to begin their professional careers with their respective NBA franchises.

    8. Intra-African Trade Continues to Grow

    Intra-African trade increased to an estimated $213.8 billion in 2025, according to the latest African Trade Report, with Nigeria expected to benefit from expanding opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

    Analysts say improvements in infrastructure, export promotion and regional integration could further strengthen Nigeria’s position in continental trade. Businesses are also expected to benefit from easier access to new African markets as implementation of AfCFTA continues.

    9. NCDC Reports Rising Lassa Fever Deaths

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported an increase in Lassa fever fatalities as health authorities continue to respond to outbreaks in affected states.

    Officials have intensified surveillance, treatment and public sensitisation campaigns while urging Nigerians to seek medical attention immediately after noticing symptoms. Health experts say early diagnosis remains one of the most effective ways to reduce fatalities.

    10. Court Fixes June 30 for Sowore Bail Ruling

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed June 30 to rule on Omoyele Sowore’s application seeking the restoration of his bail and the setting aside of a bench warrant previously issued against him.

    The case continues to attract attention from legal practitioners, civil society organisations and political observers. The court’s decision is expected to determine the next phase of the proceedings and could have broader implications for similar high-profile cases.

  • Top 10 News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. NEC Approves ₦83.2 Billion for Flood Prevention and Climate Emergency Response

    The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved ₦83.2 billion for the Anticipatory Action Task Force to mitigate the impact of flooding and other climate-related emergencies across Nigeria. The approval was granted during the council’s 158th meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, following a presentation by the Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu. The intervention is aimed at shifting Nigeria’s disaster management strategy from reactive responses to proactive measures ahead of the peak rainy season.

    Vice President Shettima said the administration’s economic reforms must translate into practical benefits that protect citizens, especially farmers and small-scale producers vulnerable to climate shocks. The funding will support drainage expansion projects, public sensitisation campaigns, and the prepositioning of emergency relief materials in flood-prone communities. NEC also urged state governments to work closely with the Federal Government to remove logistical and compliance obstacles affecting agricultural exports and local economic activities.

    2. FG Releases Guidelines for New Tax Reform Framework

    The Federal Government has unveiled transitional guidelines for implementing Nigeria’s new tax framework following the enactment of four major tax reform laws. The guidelines were presented in Abuja by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, alongside Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele. They are designed to regulate the transition from previous tax regimes to the new legal framework without disrupting business operations.

    According to the government, investors who received tax incentives, exemptions, and development levies under previous laws will continue to enjoy those benefits until their approved expiration dates. However, all pending and future applications for incentives will be assessed strictly under the provisions of the new laws. Officials believe the framework will reduce tax-related disputes, improve compliance, and provide greater certainty for businesses operating in Nigeria’s evolving fiscal environment.

    3. CBN Raises One-Year Treasury Bill Yield to 17.34%

    The Central Bank of Nigeria increased the yield on its 364-day Treasury bills to 17.34 per cent during its latest auction as part of efforts to reduce excess liquidity and tackle inflationary pressures. The apex bank initially offered ₦1 trillion across different maturities but received subscriptions worth ₦1.863 trillion, reflecting strong investor demand. Following the oversubscription, the CBN allotted ₦1.437 trillion to investors, with the largest share directed toward the one-year instrument.

    Auction data also showed that the 91-day Treasury bill attracted ₦129.69 billion in subscriptions and cleared at 16.28 per cent, while the 182-day bill recorded lower demand despite a rise in its yield. Financial analysts say the upward movement in rates underscores the CBN’s commitment to maintaining a tight monetary stance. They believe the strategy is intended to attract foreign capital inflows, stabilise the naira, and contain inflation, though higher borrowing costs could also affect businesses and consumers.

    4. FG Inaugurates Presidential Task Force on Ebola Preparedness

    The Federal Government has inaugurated a Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus Disease Preparedness to strengthen surveillance systems and maintain Nigeria’s zero-case status. The task force, inaugurated at the State House in Abuja, is chaired by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and comprises agencies responsible for border security, immigration management, and disease surveillance.

    Authorities said the initiative is designed to move Nigeria from emergency responses to permanent preventive structures capable of detecting and containing public health threats before they spread. Surveillance efforts will focus on major international gateways in Lagos, Kano, Rivers, Enugu, and the Federal Capital Territory, alongside land border operations. Officials say the long-term goal is to establish a durable public health framework that can respond swiftly to future outbreaks and serve as a model for other African countries.

    5. Information Minister Urges Media to Reduce Publicity for Terror Groups

    Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris has called on media organisations to scale back the extensive publicity often given to terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups. Speaking at a security summit organised by the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the Department of State Services in Abuja, Idris argued that excessive reporting of criminal activities can unintentionally amplify fear and advance the objectives of violent groups.

    The minister stressed that the government remains committed to press freedom but urged journalists to balance that freedom with national responsibility. Participants at the summit highlighted concerns that insurgent and criminal networks increasingly use digital platforms and media exposure to spread misinformation and influence public perception. Media practitioners, however, advocated stronger engagement between journalists and security agencies to ensure accurate reporting without compromising ongoing security operations.

    6. INEC Begins Distribution of Sensitive Materials for Ekiti Governorship Election

    The Independent National Electoral Commission has commenced the sorting and distribution of sensitive election materials ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State. The exercise took place at the Central Bank of Nigeria facility in Ado-Ekiti under the supervision of Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, with representatives of political parties and security agencies monitoring the process.

    INEC disclosed that registered voters in the state increased from 987,647 in 2023 to 1,059,360 for the current election cycle, while Permanent Voter Card collection reached 97.1 per cent. To ensure a smooth and secure process, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed 10,000 personnel, while the Nigerian Air Force is providing logistical support to difficult-to-reach areas. Electoral stakeholders say the high PVC collection rate could translate into stronger voter participation.

    7. NNPC and TotalEnergies Renew Methane Emission Detection Partnership

    NNPC Limited and TotalEnergies have renewed their methane emission detection partnership for another 24 months, extending the use of advanced airborne monitoring technology across their upstream oil and gas assets. The agreement was signed in Abuja by NNPC’s Executive Vice President for Upstream Operations, Udy Ntia, and TotalEnergies Country Chair, Matthieu Bouyer.

    The programme uses specialised aerial equipment capable of detecting, measuring, and mapping greenhouse gas emissions with high precision. Officials said data generated during the first phase enabled operators to identify priority areas for methane reduction and infrastructure upgrades. The extension aligns with Nigeria’s commitments under global decarbonisation initiatives and supports NNPC’s target of achieving near-zero methane emissions and significantly reducing gas flaring by 2030.

    8. IPI Calls for End to Arrests and Intimidation of Journalists

    The International Press Institute Nigeria has urged security agencies to stop the arrest and detention of journalists, insisting that disputes involving media organisations should be handled through lawful and democratic channels. Speaking at a media-security summit in Abuja, IPI Nigeria President and Premium Times Editor-in-Chief, Musikilu Mojeed, argued that coercive actions against journalists undermine public trust and weaken democratic institutions.

    The organisation said many of the tensions between security agencies and the press stem from poor communication, institutional mistrust, and the absence of effective dispute-resolution mechanisms. Participants at the summit agreed on the need for structured engagement between journalists and security operatives. IPI also proposed the development of standard interaction protocols that would protect both national security interests and press freedom.

    9. Super Falcons Remain Africa’s Highest-Ranked Women’s Team

    Nigeria’s Super Falcons will head into the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as Africa’s highest-ranked women’s national team after retaining 36th place in the latest FIFA rankings. The ranking follows back-to-back victories over Senegal in international friendlies played in Ikenne, where the Falcons recorded 2-1 and 3-0 wins.

    Although the results strengthened Nigeria’s position on the continent, they were not enough to move the team above Serbia, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic in the global rankings. The Super Falcons will compete in Group C at the tournament in Morocco alongside Zambia, Egypt, and Malawi as they chase an 11th continental title. Beyond the trophy, the competition also offers qualification opportunities for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

    10. Ghana Opens World Cup Campaign with Late Victory Over Panama

    Ghana began its World Cup campaign on a winning note after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama thanks to a stoppage-time goal from midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi. The match appeared destined for a draw before the late breakthrough handed the Black Stars all three points and a strong start in Group L.

    The result has generated excitement across West Africa, with football analysts praising Ghana’s resilience and determination. Elsewhere, the Democratic Republic of Congo earned a hard-fought draw against Portugal, further highlighting the growing competitiveness of African teams on the global stage. Nigerian football observers are closely following these performances as they assess regional developments ahead of future continental competitions.

  • Federal Government Rolls Out FreeTV, Nigerians Raise Questions Over Power Supply

    The Federal Government has officially rolled out FreeTV, a national digital television platform offering over 100 free channels across Nigeria. The initiative is part of efforts to advance the country’s Digital Switch-Over (DSO) programme and expand access to digital broadcasting services.

    While the platform promises wider access to entertainment and information without subscription fees, the launch has triggered public debate, with many Nigerians questioning how practical the service will be amid ongoing electricity challenges across the country.

    NBC Unveils Nationwide Digital Platform

    The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) announced that FreeTV will be delivered through satellite, terrestrial transmission and a dedicated mobile application.

    According to the commission, the platform is designed to improve picture quality, increase local content distribution and extend coverage to rural and underserved communities.

    Households with compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders can access the service, while some existing free-to-air setups may not require new equipment.

    Government Links Project to Digital Inclusion Agenda

    The Federal Government described the rollout as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at expanding digital access, supporting the creative industry and creating employment opportunities.

    NBC Director-General, Charles Ebuebu, said the platform would benefit both consumers and content creators.

    “With FreeTV, families across Nigeria can enjoy quality digital television without a monthly subscription, while our local content producers, technicians, and young creatives gain new platforms and new jobs,” he said.

    The government also noted plans to establish regional studios in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Benin to boost local production capacity.

    Digital Switch-Over Enters New Phase

    The launch marks another major step in Nigeria’s long-delayed Digital Switch-Over programme, which seeks to fully replace analogue broadcasting by December 31, 2028.

    Officials say the platform will also feature indigenous language channels, educational programming and improved access to information for remote communities.

    Nigerians Raise Concerns Over Power Supply

    Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the rollout, many Nigerians have raised concerns about the country’s unreliable electricity supply, which they say could limit the effectiveness of the service.

    Some citizens welcomed the idea of free television access, describing it as a relief from rising subscription costs. Others, however, argued that without stable power and strong signal coverage, the impact of FreeTV may remain limited in many households.

    The discussion has continued online, with Nigerians weighing the benefits of the platform against broader infrastructural challenges.