The Association of Licensed Set Top Box Manufacturers of Nigeria (STBMAN) has accused the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) of repeatedly misusing regulatory processes, warning that its actions could further hinder Nigeria’s long-delayed digital switch-over (DSO) project.
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The Chairman of STBMAN, Godfrey Ohuabunwa, made this allegation in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Ohuabunwa said recent developments in Nigeria’s broadcast industry reflect a “stiff-necked attitude” by the NBC, which he claimed is pursuing policies that foster “unnecessary confrontation” rather than progress and stability in the sector.
He referenced concerns earlier raised by the Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria, noting that 17 years after discussions on the DSO began in 2008, Nigeria has yet to achieve meaningful progress.
According to him, countries that once looked up to Nigeria for guidance on digital migration have since moved ahead, leaving the country “running in circles.”
While acknowledging differences with some of IBAN’s conclusions, Ohuabunwa stressed that key issues highlighted by the association cannot be ignored. He alleged that successive leaderships of the NBC have consistently ignored stakeholder recommendations and deviated from the approved white paper guiding the DSO implementation.
The STBMAN chairman also accused the commission of disregarding the rule of law, citing what he described as attempts to undermine a subsisting court order in Suit No. FCT/HC/GAR/CV/442/2024.
He emphasized that court orders must be obeyed until set aside, warning that any action to the contrary would erode investor confidence and discourage foreign investment.
Ohuabunwa further criticized reported plans by the NBC to import hybrid set-top boxes from China, describing the move as a violation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Nigeria First” policy, which prioritizes locally manufactured goods.
He said local manufacturers, who invested heavily in the sector despite uncertainties, have instead been met with neglect and lack of engagement by the regulator.
“At the core of our objective is the successful transition from analog to digital broadcasting in line with international obligations, while also supporting local industry and providing affordable services to Nigerians,” he stated.
The association called on President Tinubu to intervene by directing the NBC to halt any ongoing or planned licensing, certification, or importation of set-top boxes pending the final determination of the ongoing court case.
STBMAN warned that failure to address the issues could compel it to explore legal options, including contempt proceedings against the commission and its officials.
