i

MIGRATION FROM ANALOGUE TO DIGITAL

BROADCAST TECHNOLOGY: AN ANALYSIS OF

PERCEPTIONS OF THE NIGERIAN PROFESSIONALS

ALALIBO, TAMMY GOLDEN

PG/MA/07/42938

DEPARTMENT OF MASS COMMUNICATION,

FACULTY OF ARTS,

UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA

MARCH 2009

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CERTIFICATION

This project report is certified as having met the requirements of the Department of

Mass Communication and the School of Post Graduate Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka

for the award of a Master of Arts degree in Mass Communication.

BY

------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------

RAY A. UDEAJAH (PhD). DATE

(RESEARCH PROJECT SUPERVISOR)

------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------

RAY A. UDEAJAH (Ph.D). DATE

(Ag. HEAD OF DEPARTMENT)

------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------

EXTERNAL EXAMINER Date

iii

DEDICATION

To the awesome, magnificent and incomparable God,

Jesus Christ, who gave me all I needed for this

academic exercise. He protected me daily as I drove

from PortHarcourt to Nsukka. Lord, I give you praise

and adoration.

To my lovely wife, my daughter Chelsea and son

Tammy Jnr. For your understanding and support inspite

of my painful absence from home.

To an erudite and disciplined but very friendly scholar,

teacher and friend, Dr. Ray Udeajah, who shepherd me

like a father and showed me love. I will not forget you

in life.

To Dr. C. S. Akpan, I found honesty, love, integrity and

professionalism in you. A true Niger Deltan, friend and

brother. I love you all

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

My gratitude is to God Almighty, who gave me the inspiration in my educational

endeavuor. I render to him thanksgiving with an offering of praise and adoration. Who so ever

feareth the lord shall live.

I admire Dr. Ray A. Udeajah a great deal. Though you are tough, thorough or

meticulous to the core, the friendly ambience of your office was the soothing balm for

academic excellence. You thought me new things.

My thanks goes to indefatigable and erudite scholars and lecturers, first, Dr. C. S.

Akpan, Mr. Nnayelugo Okoro an author and lecturer per excellence, very lovely, eloquent,

brilliant and beautiful Miss Edith Ohaja, you all have given me a new vista of the academia.

Special thanks to my General Manager, Miss Medline Tador, for her cooperation. My

love also go to my Post-Graduate Mass Communication students for warmth, friendliness,

team spirit and camaraderie – thanks again – the best is yet to come and it will come in Jesus

name.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Title page ...........................................................................................................................….. ii

Certification ………………………………………………………………………………… iii

Dedication .........................................................................................................................…...iv

Acknowledgements ...........................................................................................................…...v

List of Tables ………………………………………………………………………….. …...vii

Table of Contents……………………………………………………………………… ……ix

Abstract ………………………………………………………………………………. …….xii

CHAPTER ONE: Introduction

1.1 Background of Study . . . . . . . .

1.2 Statement of the Problem . . . . . . . .

1.3 Objectives of the Study . . . . . . . .

1.4 Significance of the study . . . . . . . .

1.5 Research Questions . . . . . . . . .

1.6 Theoretical Framework . . . . . . . .

1.7 Scope of the study . . . . . . . .

1.8 Limitations of Study . . . . . . . . .

1.9 Definition of Terms . . . . . . . . .

References . . . . . . . . . .

CHAPTER TWO: Literature Review

2.1 Origin of Broadcasting in Nigeria . . . . . . .

2.2 Reasons for the Theory of Technology and Change . . . . .

2.3 Broadcasting . . . . . . . . . .

2.4 Television . . . . . . . . . .

2.5 Analogue and Digital . . . . . . . . .

2.6 Benefits of Digital Television Broadcasting . . . . . .

2.7 The Role of Independent Transmission Companies . . . .

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2.8 Understand Broadcast Digitization and its functions . . . . .

2.9 The Role of National Broadcasting Commission . . . . .

2.10 The Challenges of Digitization . . . . . . .

2.11 The Role of Electricity . . . . . . . .

2.12 Media Hegemony . . . . . . . . .

2.13 The Position of Nigcomsat-1 . . . . . . . .

2.14 The Dimension of Digital Divide . . . . . . .

References . . . . . . . . . .

CHAPTER THREE: Methodology

3.1 Research Design . . . . . . . . .

3.2 Population of Study . . . . . . . . .

3.3 Sample Size . . . . . . . . . .

3.4 Sampling Procedure . . . . . . . . .

3.5 Data Analysis / Discussion . . . . . . . .

References . . . . . . . . . .

CHAPTER FOUR: Data Analysis and Results

CHAPTER FIVE: Summary, Conclusion and recommendations

5.1 Summary . . . . . . . . . .

5.2 Conclusion . . . . . . . . .

5.3 Recommendations . . . . . . . . .

Bibliography . . . . . . . . . .

Appendix . . . . . . . . . .

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LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Distribution of responses on the kind of Equipment they are working with -

Table 2: Distribution of responses on the comfortability of the old system; the

analogue devices - - - - - - - - -

Table 3. Distribution of Responses on Computer Education for Broadcast professionals -

Table 4: Distribution of Responses on Broadcast stations that are already computerized -

Table 5: Distribution of Responses on the automated broadcast stations - - -

Table 6. Distribution of Respondents on the awareness of NBC 2012 deadline - -

Table 7: Distribution of responses on the possibility of the switch over form analogue

to digital - - - - - - - - - -

Table 8. Distribution of Responses in respect of efforts so far made towards digitization -

Table 9. Distribution of Responses of those whose are likely to be in jeopardy if the

deadline is not met. - - - - - - - - -

Table 10: Distribution of Responses of those who think many stations will default -

Table 11: Distribution of Responses to show the state of mind of respondents: If they

are happy with digitization of broadcast stations - - - - -

Table 12: Distribution of Responses to show if digitization will enhance job performance -

Table 13. Distribution of responses on the likely benefits of digitization - - -

Table 14. Distribution of responses to show if digitization has the potential for

increased listenership or viewership - - - - - -

Table 15. Distribution of Responses on job creation opportunities of digitization - -

Table 16. Distribution of responses on the readiness of broadcast station for the

migration - - - - - - - - -

Table 17. Distribution of responses on personal advocacy for the digitization of the

stations speedily - - - - - - - - -

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ABSTRACT

Broadcasting was founded on the foundation of the analogue technology, and the curiosity to

unravel the best way to achieve professional competence in practice, gave birth to this

research. The ITU resolution 1185 on digital terrestrial broadcasting, the International

Telecommunication Union (ITU) order of 2015 and the National Broadcasting Commission

Marching order of 2012 for all broadcast stations in Nigeria to migrate from analogue to the

digital platform was propelled by the paradigm shift occasioned by advanced and highly

sophisticated technology introduced recently to the broadcasting industry globally –

Digitization. It is about to be the crowned head of mass communication and the

corresponding instruction from ITU and NBC are fait accompli due to obvious reasons which

is media globalization that is extremely intrusive, intensive and extensive. You will agree with

me that these orders have deep running implications for all sectors and stakeholders. In an

attempt to look at the effect of the migration on broadcast professionals and the public the

technology determinism and social constructionism theories of McQuail became apt to

ascertain the level of preparedness of broadcast stations, the challenges, intrigues,

complexities and benefits of digitization. To this end, the survey method of research and the

purposive sampling technique were adopted to collate and analyze the results. My finding is

that there is one hundred percent preference for the digitization but trepidation for its ability

to kill jobs when combined with Automation, and all hand appears to be on deck to accelerate

the process. In my opinion, I suggest trainings, acquisition of equipment and regulation

before the deadline. The literature review and objective of study are readers delight any day.

The journey towards digitization is between June 17, 2006 and June 17, 2015 and we are yet

to reach cruising altitude. This research therefore, x-rayed the opinion of media

professionals, and their readiness towards the ground-breaking event which is 2012

migration to the digital platform by all Nigeria broadcast stations.

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of Study

Broadcasting, which is the instantaneous transmission of signals or messages through

the electromagnetic waves to a heterogeneous society or a large audience, has experienced

different kinds of changes in programmes packaging, studio designs and equipment for the

transmitters due to the convergence of technology. It is the fastest means of information

dissemination and guarded jealously by state power.

The geometrical progression in the changes of broadcast systems from one form to

another at quick succession is indicative of the interest attached to broadcasting

modernization and updates. However broadcasting transition from analogue to digital

platform is what is referred to as the migration. This phenomenon is about to be globalized

and therefore incumbent on Nigeria as part of the global village to follow the trend of events

in information and communication technology, and also be part of the cyber world.

Analogue broadcasting is traditional whereas digital broadcasting is novel due to the

current breakthrough in information communication technology. The advanced countries of

the world are switching over to the digital devices. The developing countries, Nigeria

inclusive, that adopted “development communication” which aims at competing favourably in

the information super high way must of necessity gravitate towards the novelty of digital

broadcasting switchover.

Information found on the website of Digital United Kingdom Ltd., an independent,

non-profit organization, leading the process of digital TV switchover in the UK, explained

that:

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With digital TV, sound and pictures from the

broadcasters are converted into „bits‟ of information

and sent through an aerial, satellite, telephone lines

or cable. This digital signal is then turned back into

pictures and sound by a digital box or a digital TV

set.

It went further to inform UK audience that starting from 2008 and ending in 2012, TV

services in the United Kingdom will go completely digital or experience digital switchover. It

means UK old Television broadcasting signal (known as analogue) is being switched off and

replaced with a digital signal. Any TV set that is not converted to digital when the switchover

takes place, will no longer receive TV programmes. It stands to reason therefore that

broadcasters and policy makers should attend to the exigencies and paradigm shift occasioned

by the digital switchover in Nigeria.

Nonetheless, media professionals are wondering that if digital switchover is a matter

of absolute necessity, what then are the benefits derivable? Part of the answers could be found

in the UK Company disclosed that the digital brings many new ways to enjoy television and

radio.

1) There are extra channels as standard.

2) Improved quality of TV picture and radio audio including on-screen TV listings, true

widescreen picture

3) Special features for people with visual and hearing impairments – such as audio

description and subtitling.

It is expedient at this juncture to look at the British experience in relation to what is

expected in Nigeria. The UK is the leader in the take-up of digital radio. It was discovered

that listeners can listen both their favourite stations and to thousands of new ones across a

range of platforms, including digital television, the internet, satellite and DAB. Therefore the

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industry must embrace the opportunities of a hybrid technological approach to suits different

listeners needs. According to Akpan (2006:28)

Broadcasting has been at the forefront of many

technological changes, mostly in digitization and

enhancement of existing services. For example,

digital technology now permits listeners to obtain

traffic information and news per se while listening to

a cassette, compact disc or radio station etc. digital

cable and alternative technologies such as digital

microwave systems allow consumers to send return

signals. Digital interactive television now allows

viewers to choose their own camera angles for

watching sporting events and to view highlights

while the action is still continuing.

These advantages make digital broadcasting unique in all ramifications. Infact

Rodman (2006:236) added his voice in the aspect of digital radio by saying,

in digital radio, transmitted sounds are assigned

numbers (digits) that take up less air space than

analogue waves, when means more format choices

can be offered. Digital signals also result in a crisp

clear signal. The difference between analogue and

digital is like the difference between AM and FM in

terms of quality.

My professional experience tells me that no practicing broadcaster would subscribe to

any inferior technology for on-air performance. Digitization appears to satisfy their desire for

excellent performance, considering the advantages enumerated by these erudite scholars and

authors. One of such authors is Dominick (2002:77) who deduced that “we can describe

digital technology as a system that encodes information –sound, text, data, graphics, video-

into a series of on-and off pulses that are usually denoted as zeros and one. Once digitized, the

information can be duplicated easily and transported at extremely low costs”.

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He went further to say “Digital technology makes possible the special effect now

common in motion pictures and television as well as digital audio, digital video, digital

photography and digital equivalent of newspapers, magazines and books”.

The digital revolution has greatly impacted the broadcast industry. From the

foregoing, therefore, and broadcasting perspective, digitization will affect both sound and

picture signals, the electromagnetic waves turned into digits, bandwidth compression to

accommodate more frequencies, lower digital power capable of covering wider areas, digital

modules and components for the transmitters, set top boxes for reception for digital signals,

culminating in crisp clear pictures and superb audio qualities. Easy to manipulate in the

operational areas for optimum use and output. Digitization of broadcasting is the ultimate

technological innovation for the industry

It is in the light of this, that Nigeria took the bold steps towards acquiring the state of

the art information technology, with a policy statement on the digital switchover. All Africa

.com website posted a story from daily trust magazine Abuja on the 10th August 2008, titled

“Nigeria: Digitization transiting from analogue pains to Digital gains” written by Abbas

Jimoh, he said:

“The federal government has set June 17 and later December 31, 2012 as switchover

date for the transition of analogue to digital Television Broadcasting”

This is coming on the heels of similar “self set” deadlines of mostly European and African

countries like Britain, Sweden France, Kenya and South Africa among others. The digitization

of analogue broadcasting signal is one of the most significant changes in broadcast

environment to meet the current conventional trend of digital electronics, computers and

tremendous flow of global information.

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Abbas Jimoh went on to explain that

Computers are unable to process analogue signals

and their varying degrees of amplitude. As

computers use binary numbers to work they need

digital signals to be able to understand commands.

A digital signal has only two states – „on‟ or „off‟ …

In Russia when the incumbent president, Dmitry Medvedev was first deputy Prime Minister

in May 2006, he was appointed to run a new government commission, tasked with mapping

out the future of Russian television and radio, a challenge of preparing the country for digital

broadcasting and the task was accomplished. This shows the vigor passion and speed with

which the developed nations are pursuing the issue of digitization. This in my view, provides

an adequate framework in which some attention could be given by the Nigerian broadcasting

commission to Radio and TV migration to digital. I am convinced that this commission has an

important role to play in facilitating the migration of radio and TV from analogue to digital

thus ensuring that these media continue to play its role in the digital audiovisual landscape

and preventing it from becoming an obsolete analogue media in Nigeria.

The way it is now, the broadcasting stations in Nigeria have suffered so much

denigration with the worst analogue devices especially the government owned Radio and TV

stations. Some are not computer complaint neither do they understand automated systems,

therefore the introduction of digital will appears hyperbolic. Be it as it may, and

professionally speaking, the word „digital‟ must be entrenched in the Nigerian broadcasting

dictionary and analogue be obliterated as we cannot afford to take the back seat on the latest

and mass information and communication dissemination methods via digital technology.

Engineer Steve Garba writing in VON Airwaves magazine vol. 1, “The challenges of

Digital switchover in Africa” observed

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It is no longer news that while Digital Broadcasting

is the current mode of broadcasting in many

countries in Europe, America and Asia, however,

almost all the countries in Africa are yet to start

transition to digital broadcasting”

Apparently the only digital radio broadcasting to the public created specifically for

Africa over our air space is through satellite by Ethiopian born Noah Samara of world space

corporation Washington DC.

Engineer Garba further explains that the exploits of Noah Samara serves as a wake up

call to Nigeria policy makers. According to the engineer, writing in VON Airwaves magazine

vol. 1, on the theme “the challenges of digital switchover in Africa states as follows:

This satellite know as Afristar is located in

geostationary orbit 22300 miles above central Africa

and has over 100 digital Radio channels… world

space has leased some of these Radio channels for a

fee … to Kosmos Digital (south Africa) Egyptian

Radio and TV (Egypt), Ghana broadcasting

corporation (Ghana), media 1 (Morocco), Kenya

broadcasting corp (Kenya), KAYA FM (South

Africa), Metro East fm (Kenya) Golf fm (Benin),

Taxi Radio (South Africa), Radio SUD (Senegal).

Signals from these stations are uplinked to the

satellite on a specially coded digital signal through

a small satellite dish. The equipment decodes the

signal, then amplifies it and convert it to digital

signal before beaming it towards Africa. The listener

receives this signal directly from the satellite using

the world space Digital Receiver on L-band

frequency.

Nigeria has a satellite that ought to facilitate terrestrial transmission and reception of

digital signals. But it is disheartening and embarrassing to note that the 40 billion Naira

communication satellite Nigsatcom 1, is tumbling down from orbit after losing power.

Broadcast professionals, are bewildered as to why Nigeria space Agency should invite

Chinese company to install such a gigantic project whereas Americans and Germans can

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perfectly execute it without mishap. It is disturbing that all the stations mentioned above non

is Nigerian based and that our only hope the Nigsatcom 1 is dashed. The switchover to digital

is inevitable and very soon all manufacturing countries would change over and Africa and

Nigeria would have no choice but to change as analogue equipment will be out of production,

outdated and obsolete. If this is a clarion call for broadcasting, this study will therefore

examine the readiness of Nigerian stations. How many are computer compliant, automated

and digitized? What kind of equipment are in the industry – analogue but computerized and

digital? How many stations are ready to migrate in the next 4 years?

It will also examine the challenges of digitization of Broadcast stations with a view to

disabusing the minds of broadcast professionals who are apprehensive of its success.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

From all indications, digital switchover is inevitable, and this has given rise to

trepidation by broadcast professionals due to the antecedents of government policies and

executions in the past. As this topic is examined, varied problems emerge tending to halt the

process of digital migration of Nigerian broadcast industry. The questions that will arise from

these problems are as follows:

Can the federal government make available, and at what cost, digital devices required

by the broadcast stations and can they also minimize the cost of reception devices such as TV

sets, set top boxes, networked personal computers, getting connected to telecommunication

networks, media literacy and upgrading of technologies? These are identifiable constraints

that will face digitization, for which the capability of Nigeria Broadcasting commission will

be put to test before and after the 2012 deadline.

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What would be the fate of state and private stations, whose meager resources may not

be able to accommodate the huge finances required? They may find themselves in a situation

where they have to shut down, like most banks that could not recapitalize, thereby causing

serious unemployment situation.

Furthermore training and retraining of media operatives at home and abroad increase

operations overheads that will put strains in the budget of stations. What efforts are in place to

train operational staff at minimal cost? Can you imagine where huge sums of money are spent

in digitizing the station and training of personnel, the effect it will have on the

receiver/consumer financially.

It will be pertinent to know if digitization can truly engender superior on-air

performance and reception of signals of broadcast stations, and corresponding financial

benefits, to justify the investments.

Are the local national media contents not at the mercy of global hegemonies,

considering the fact that globalization introduced the adoption of foreign culture that eroded

the cultural values of developing nations. It can be possible that under the present

circumstances digitations can also be another form of globalization because media contents

are controlled by the big five. They can also dictate what we must use.

In view of the cumbersome process it takes to float a broadcast station, one wonders if

the National Broadcasting Commission can authorize transmitting companies to take

responsibility of radio and Television signals transmission alone, so as to reduce the burden of

setting up a broadcast station from the beginning to the end.

In the analogue era, broadcasting chain simply means the studio and all the equipment

required to generate programmes in the „Broadcasting House‟, then the links department picks

9

the signal with a microwaves equipments and then transmits the signal to the transmitting end

for further amplification, modulation and transmission through the electromagnetic waves. In

order words, broadcasting is made possible by two indispensable arms-namely programs and

Engineering. Programmes Department generates programme contents while the Engineering

department mainly transmits the programme signals for consumers‟ reception.

Therefore, in a digital era, there ought to be clear distinction or separation of

programmes and Engineering. In Johannesburg South Africa this researcher observed separate

transmitting companies while the Radio stations merely subscribe to them, noting the

frequency and the kilo or mega power for transmission. Y-FM, Kaya FM, Five FM, Jakaranda

FM and many others subscribe to just one transmitting company.

This division of labour makes it less cumbersome in terms of finance and logistics for

setting up broadcast stations.

By the way, what will happen to the non-recyclable analogue equipment that will be

dumped everywhere and the economic waste that will arise from their disposal. What readily

comes to mind is the dumping of cars and computers that have gone bad, therefore the

dumping of analogue broadcast materials is likely to make it a child‟s play.

Why would most television sets especially high definition TV sets manufactured this

period not digitally fitted to receive digital signals? This question agitates the minds of

professionals in view of a statement credited to NBC boss, Mr. Yomi Bolarinwa, which says

that HD inscription on sets is not enough guarantee to receive digital programmes but buyers

should cheek DTT insignia to ensure that such is digitally ready.

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Is the 2012 deadline set by the Nigeria broadcast commission feasible for the

migration considering the fact that other deadline such as the millennium development goal

for the year 2000 was shifted to 2015.

Though the digital switchover appears inevitable, Nigeria broadcasters are

apprehensive of government‟s sincerity for a conducive and competitive environment for both

federal and private stations.

The trepidation of professionals is arising from the abysmal failure of the electric

power generating sector called power holding, the lack lustered performance of the refineries

and the disgraceful failure of the 40 billion Naira communication satellites, Nigsatcom 1,

which has lost power and having free fall from orbit.

This study will address these problems.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The objective of this study is to increase the awareness of the inevitability of digitization of

broadcast stations before 2012.

To evaluate the effect digitization would have on the audience who are the main

recipients of broadcast signals.

To forestall the acrimony that will arise from “digital divide”, that is a bitter contest

between those who will possess strategic superior digital knowledge and those with

superficial knowledge that may stagger the industry in future.

To spur or galvanize broadcasters and scholars into action, that the time has come for

change and that all practitioners must acquire digital knowledge.

Finally, this study is to contribute to knowledge in the area of broadcasting for

posterity.

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1.5 Significance of the study

This study is significant in many dimensions

Digital broadcasting is the dream of every broadcaster. Digitization is the latest

innovation in information communication technology, but Africa participation in the

conferences and activities of information communication technology and international

telecommunication union, the major advocates of digitization is abysmal, this study would

serve as a wake up call and a change of heart in digital broadcasting might have the potentials

to speed up the process of the migration in the broadcast stations where I belong.

As a broadcaster myself, I look forward to a day when I will sit in a highly digital

studio to do my productions and make broadcast and also contribute to knowledge.

Indeed this study is necessary as Nigeria prepares to join the rest of the world in the

race to meet the ITU resolution and deadline to prevent the country from becoming a dumping

ground for obsolete analogue broadcast equipment. In the light of this, the work will serve as

an addition to other literatures that may exist in this field and help shape the minds of

broadcasters and scholars for digital operations in the digital age.

1.5 Research Questions

Can indeed broadcast stations in Nigeria successfully obliterate obsolete analogue devices and

migrate to a more, advanced digitized technology?

This study will therefore address the following research questions

1) What kind of equipment do Nigerian broadcasters use – analogue, computer or digital?

2) How many of the broadcast stations under study are computerized and automated?

12

3) How much awareness will be required for Broadcasters and the public before the

digital switchover?

4) What are the challenges/obstacles to digitization in the stations under investigation?

5) What would happen to the analogue devices that would be discarded and dumped.

6) How many broadcast stations will be ready before 2012 deadline?

1.6 Theoretical Framework

Advances in technology or the introduction of new media, fundamentally alter the

nature of mass communication, Baran (2004:420). The fundamental assumption of this

paradigm is due to the flush with enthusiasm and optimism for technology and science. This

shift is in the direction of more speed, greater dispersion wider reach and greater flexibility

broadcasting McQuail (2007:107) the most appropriate theory for this study, therefore is the

media society theory also known as the communication technology determinism theory.

According to McQuail, (2007:102) the theory states that

There is a long and still active tradition of searching

for links between the dominant communication

technology of an age and key features of society ---

with a common element of media centredness. There

is also the tendency to concentrate on the potentials

for social change of a particular communication

technology

This theory is indicative of the hunger for new technology for mass communication

and the social change inherent in the introduction of new ways of doing things as evident in

GSM, computers and digitization of broadcasting hence the link between technology and

society advancement.

Social constructionism theory: Here again McQuail (2007:101) citing Blumer

(1969), and Alfred Schutz (1972), said this theory is centred on how “the structures,

13

forces and ideas of society are created by human beings, continually recreated or

reproduced and also open to challenge and change”. What is more challenging and

subject to change in the broadcast industry than, the digitalization of the industry

which is a creation of human efforts.

These two theories which are the introduction of new technology and social change for

societal benefits bring about challenge and change in the society, will form the theoretical

bases for this research.

1.7 Scope of the study

The study or research into the impact of digitization on broadcasters and the society is

about to begin and this appears to be one of the first of such research works. As one of the

first research works in this area, the study will entail broadcast stations readiness for

digitization and broadcasters proficiency in the operation of equipment with digital potentials

and sample the opinion of broadcast professionals.

Furthermore, the study will limit its scope to examine types of equipment, training of

personal and digital compliance of stations before 2012 in the study area. This study will be

centered on two geopolitical zones of South South, and South East to represent the entire

country.

1.8 Scope/Limitations of Study

This study will not cover the entire country due to lack of funds and time; however,

attempts will be made to cover major radio and television stations in two geopolitical zones to

reflect the Nigeria experience.

14

Every research work has its limitations and this work is not an exception. This work

was in certain ways constrained by time and the inability of some respondents to give answers

to the questions posed in the questionnaire without some form of hesitation. Again, combining

academic work with the research also posed another challenge to the research.

1.9 Definition of Terms

* Audiovisual: The ability to hear and see the signal or message from radio and TV.

* Automation: Automatic devices to do a work in a broadcast studio, nonstop especially

24 hour broadcasting.

* DAB: Digital Audio Broadcasting

* Digitization globalization: The centralization of the new concept called digitization

according to the dictates of imperial powers, so as to erode the culture of the less

developed nations

* Electromagnetic: The carrier waves that transport signals from source to the receiver

in Radio and TV broadcasting.

* ITU: International Telecommunication union the sole advocate of digitization

* Media Hegemonies: The leadership and control of media contents and technology by

few.

* Metamorphosis: Frequent changes of broadcasting technology

* NBC: This is the Nigeria broadcasting commission. These words, Nigeria and

National are interchangeably used for effect.

* Platform: Range of frequencies

* Resolution: ability to produce a good quality image with many small dots on TV,

computers, and printers

15

* Switchover: Transition of broadcasting from one dispensation to another

* VON: Voice of Nigeria- the external devices of federal radio corporation of Nigeria

16

REFERENCES

All Africa.com: Nigeria Digitization-transiting from analogue Pains to Digital Gains

Baran, S.J. (2004). Introduction to Mass Communication, Media Literacy and Culture, (3rd

ed). New York: McGraw Hill Higher Education.

http://www.digitalU.K.com

http://www.dtv.giv.FCC

http://www.uen.org./+v/d+v/Digital+v

http://wwwsunnewsonline.com, (2007). The sun publishing Ltd.

McQuail, D. (2007). Mass Communication Theory, (5th

ed.). Los Angeles: Sage Publications.

Udeajah, R. (2004). Broadcasting and Politics in Nigeria 1963-2003. Enugu: Snaap Press ltd.

VON Airwaves magazine, vol. 2. No. 6 Count Down + digital switchover in Africa.

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Origin of Broadcasting in Nigeria

It will be trite and illogical to say that broadcasting is not he bride, beauty and

elegance of all mass communication media. Indeed broadcasting has a majestic ambiance that

is capable of protecting its practitioners to celebrity level and also attracts goodwill from the

mass audience in return.

Due to its prestigious position in the communication world, the finesse and dexterity

required for on air performance broadcast journalism is regarded as the most attractive and

innovative of all the branches of the mass media. The beginning of broadcasting or broadcast

journalism in Nigeria according to Udeajah, (2004:46) is with

“Wired broadcasting otherwise designated as Radio Distribution services (RDS).

Programmes of RDS were packaged and relayed from the British Broadcasting

Corporation (BBC) London.”

17

It sounds preposterous though, but that was the technology and knowledge available

during the colonial days. However, in his chronological treaties of broadcasting in Nigeria

Udeajah opined that it was the outcome of Turner Byron report in 1949 that gave birth to the

first broadcasting service, the Nigeria broadcasting services (NBS) in 1954, that served as

spring board for the establishment of other broadcasting outfits.

According to Udeajah (2004:45)

Chief Awolowo… Established the Western Nigeria

Television (WNTV) in 1959. The Eastern region

followed in 1960 while the Northern Region and federal

governments completed the circle in 1962. The

competition of the political practitioners to establish

broadcast media stations is the fundamental belief that

broadcasting is a powerful tool in the hands of

politicians for mounlding peoples opinion.

Because of the dynamism and raw power it possesses, broadcasting undergoes

frequent changes. In the style of operation and the design of equipment. Nigeria took the front

seat in analogue broadcasting and can‟t afford to take the rare in digital broadcasting?

Udeajah (2004:48) again captured the mood of the nation in the 60‟s by saying that

By 1962 as earlier indicated all the regional capitals

had dual broadcasting systems of radio and television.

The Nigeria broadcasting corporation came into

existence operating national, regional and provincial

stations till 1966.

It was again recorded by Udeajah (2004:51) that;

The power of the electronic media to cover long

distances and to reach beyond the boarders of foreign

countries without fear of censorship that has often

strangled the international coverage of the printed

word was recognized early in Nigeria‟s political

history. It directed the Nigeria broadcasting

corporation to set up an external service… the voice of

Nigeria (VON) came into existence in January 1962.

18

If the politician were very clever to recognize the beauty and power of broadcasting at

that time then the migration to the digital world in a civilized period shouldn‟t pose any

problems.

2.2 Reasons for the Theory of Technology and Change

Nigeria is developing nation that is practicing development communication and this

doesn‟t come without a price. Infact Udoakah (1998:26) confirmed the hurdles along the way

when he said

Development communication is practiced at an ever

increasing cost, the cost and maintenance of

communication equipment are increasing and the wage

bills of staff are rising. The management of

development information is both un-innovative and

reflects lack of grasp of the essence of the phenomenon.

The essence of this work is to delete elements of un-innovativeness but rather inject

the propensity for hard work that will get broadcasting to the Olympia height it deserved

which is digital broadcasting in Nigeria. It becomes necessary to inspire policy makers to

have a profound understanding of broadcasting media and their impact on culture and society

with regards to technological changes. Mclaughan the technological determinist who was

described in Baron and Davis (2003:298) as

Metaphysician of media”, “High priest of popcult”,

“oracle of the electronic age”, and bible of

cyberspace” elucidated that “changes in

communication technology inevitably produce profound

changes in both culture and social order.

Mclaughan went on with his theory on the power of broadcasting with modern

technology in Baran and Davis (2003:300).

Media quite literally extend sight, hearing and touch

through time and space. Electronic media would open

19

up new vistas for average people and enable us to be

everywhere, instantaneously

This is already happening, intensified and made easy through digital installations and

manipulations. Digital imputations bring out the best of the electronic media that gave birth to

the statement; the media is the message by Mclaughan. Perhaps, at this juncture we should

take a brief journey into the history of the major broadcast media-radio and television.

2.3 Broadcasting

The transmission of voices, or information, idea and music at great distance to a large

number of people predated the development of radio and television. The greatest impact on

communication emanated from man‟s ability to conquer “signaling-Time‟ which is the time it

takes a message to go from source to its destination. It means speeding a response or

compliance from a distance.

The first telegraph message across the Atlantic Ocean was the historic message of

Samuel F. Morse What God hath wrought.

In 1876, Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone, and the Radio which was

first form of communication by wireless radiation of electromagnetic signals. The “Father of

Radio” was son of a wealthy Italian and British mother GuglieImo Marconi.

Baran (2004:197) recorded that He used his mother‟s

contacts in great Britain to find support and financing

there. England with a global empire and the worlds

largest navy and Merchant Fleets was naturally

interested in long distance wireless communication.

Marconi successfully transmitted across the English

Channel in 1899 and the Atlantic Ocean in 1901.

1903 Reginald Fessendon, a Canadian invented the liquid barretter, an audio device

that allows reception of wireless voices and a broadcast was made in 1906 Christmas Eve

20

according to Baran (2004). Lee Deforest later invented “audion tube” a device that improved

and amplified wireless signals for a clear and reliable transmission of voices and music.

Baran, (2004:198) says;

Deforest‟s second important contribution was that he

saw radio as a means of broadcasting. In 1907 deforest

launched broadcasting communication through “the

distribution of grand opera music from transmitters

placed on the stage of the metropolitan opera House by

a Radio Telephone station on the roof to almost any

dwelling in greater New York ad vicinity. Baran

(2004:198) went on the say soon, countless

broadcasters went on air.

However broadcasting to a mass audience did not take off till the arrival of Russian

immigrant David Sarnoff of American Marconi who said there is a plan of development

which would make radio a house hold utility… the idea is to bring music into the house by

wireless. David Sarnoff became the author of the Radio music box Memo, which is the

receiver with different wavelengths.

Broadcasters like Frank Conrad in October 27, 1920 experimented radio stations such

8xk in Pittsburg and KDKA radio made first commercial radio broadcast that also announced

the results of the presidential election that sent president Warrant Harding to the white House

in Nov 2, 1920.

Radio signals then travel through the AM frequency which is narrow but travels

farther but subject to attenuation and atmospherics. The FM, frequency modulation was the

product of inventor innovator Edwin Armstrong in 1923, but he demonstrated his stereo

ingenuity in 1935, which was rejected by RCA but accepted by GE and together the first FM

station W2 x MN went on air in 1938.

2.4 Television

21

The most ubiquitous and socially and culturally powerful mass medium is the

television. Baran (2004:235) recounted how Paul Nipkow 1884 demonstrated the possibility

of using a scanning system to divide a scene into an orderly pattern of transmittable picture

elements that could be recomposed as visual image that became the operational basis for

modern televisions, having developed the first workable device for generating electrical

signals suitable for the transmission of a scene that people could see. 1925 John Baird

transmitted moving images, and successfully sent TV pictures from London to New York in

1928.

Vladimir Zworykin of Westinghouse invented TV camera tube- iconoscope tube in

1923, and Kinescope in 1929 with the assistance of David Sarnoff in RCA. Philo Farnsworth

from Idaho came in with electronic television system at the age of 20, in 1927 that

demonstrated film clips that led to fierce patent battles in court between him and Vladmir

Zworykin of RCA. In 1939 RCA showed black and white telecast in New York, and people

could buy TV sets at RCA pavilion during New York world fair.

World War II intervened but technical development and improvement of TV

continued till 1951. According to Baran (2004:237),

AY and T completed its national coaxial cable and

microwave relay networks for distribution of television

programming. The entire United States was within the

reach of major television networks, and they came to

eliminate the medium.

1960s refined the technical structure of television and 1962 all-channel legislation was

passed to equip TV sets with VHF and UHF receivers from this period. Baran (2004:251) said

new technologies, cable, VCR, DVD, digital video recorders, satellites, the internet and

digitalization and even remote control, upset the long standing relationship between medium

22

and audience. This is the result of media convergence. The history and practice of the

industry has no doubt created a narrative flow that helps us understand the essential concepts

of the subject matter, so as to be able to navigate the complex intersections of broadcasting

and technology.

2.5 Analogue and Digital

The radio and Television messages were delivered through analogue devices. Dominick

(2002:77) quoting Negroponte reported that,

“Traditionally the mass media delivered information in the form of atoms: Books, news

papers, magazines, CDs and video cassettes as material products that have weight and size

and are physically distributed.” Broadcasting thought exciting, was slow and clumsy through

the analogue system, but this is rapidly changing. Dominick (2002:22) noted that digitization

would bring about instantaneous transfer of electronic data that move at the speed of light, in

short atoms will give way to bits

Dominick went further to Illustrate the difference between analogue and digital with

traditional paper mail and the E-mail. In Dominick (2002:77) he said.

A letter must be placed in an envelope with a postage

stamp and given to postal services, where it is sorted,

transported ad physically delivered to recipient. E-mail

needs no paper, no postage and no delivery by post

office. It is a series of bits of information that travel

electronically and is delivered in minutes rather than

days. And the same message can be copied a thousand

times and sent to different people much quickly…

Here is another example of analogue and digital operations by George Rodman (2006)

in his book mass media in a changing world. He explained that:

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Analogue radio: - Is radio transmissions in which an electronic waveform represents the

sound on a carrier wave.

This can easily be corrupted by atmospherics and attenuations

Digital radio:- signal transmissions by assigned numbers (digits) rather than analogue waves.

It simply means it takes less air space than analogue waves, more format choices are

available, crisp clean signal, and change waves to digits.

Rodman (2006:236) made the explanation simple by saying:

The difference between traditional analogue and digital

broadcasting is like the different between AM and FM

in terms of quality. Digital radio is also able to display

information on a small screen of the receiver,

information such as the channel number, the format,

title and performer …Digital radio signals can radiate

from satellites, internet and local stations.

Satellite Radio can also distribute more than 100 channels of digital radio services to

international audience without the signal fading out through subscription of dozens of

channels of music, news and talks. Even car manufacturers are offering satellite radio as an

option on new cars. The local radio stations are encouraged to change to digital technology in

readiness for digital high definition (HD) radio broadcasting. The high definition radio

according to Rodman (2006:237) quoting manufacturers of equipment will bring FM quality

sound to AM stations and CD quality sound to FM broadcasts… it also enables stations to

send advertising messages over the HD receivers text display screen

From the foregoing, broadcasting will be interesting and pleasurable and this is the

reality of the situation. We therefore advocate its applications in the Nigeria broadcast

industry. One is impressed with the description of the accuracy of digits by Rodman

(2006:297) where he eulogized digital by saying,

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Digital communication would be more accurate and

reliable than analogue, because a message converted

into digits could be sent without distortion. As long as

the full set of digits arrived at the destination, the

message received would be and exact copy of the

message sent.

2.6 Benefits of Digital Television Broadcasting

The illustration here is technical but for the purpose of clarity one has to explain the

details of the features of digital television. With the digital television (DTV) Joseph Dominick

(2002) in his book „media in digital Age‟ said that images are scanned but the signal is binary

one, with bits of code assigned to each pixel on a TV screen that define colour, brightness and

create original images.

The many advantages of the digital TV according to Dominick (2002:266) include;

Digital TV pictures are clearer and the sound quality is

better. The new TV sets will have a different look.

Instead of the current 3.4 aspect ratio, the digital TV

would be more rectangular and look like a movie

screen. A broadcaster can use most of the digital TV

channel to broadcast high-definition Television HDTV.

HDTV:- It is important to note that all High Definition

Television have digital components, but not all digital

TV can transmit HDTV.

HDTV qualities are equal to 35mm motion picture film.

HDTV is used for very important programme contents

and major events due to cost by major networks. But

this is likely to increase because broadcasters have the

option to subdivide digital channels for both lower

definition programmes in the same space and HDTV

during prime times. When you switch on your set, four

small windows will appear on the screen. Some for

HDTV and others for lower definition TV; therefore it

is interchangeable used.

However, some of the digital TV advantages include sending and receiving E-mails,

access to internet and transmission of data according to Dominick (2002).

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These are ground breaking inventions and devices coming from the broadcast

technology manufacturers in the area of digitization. What Nigeria broadcasters and society

make of this mind blowing innovation is yet to be seen. The HDTV sets are very expensive

and consumers have not embraced it. This might change, as cost decreases and more shows

given to HDTV.

However the best news from digitization is that digital TV according to Dominick

(2002:267). Will also speed the convergence between TV and the computer. Web TV lets

subscribers access the internet through their TV sets. A picture-in-picture feature permits

simultaneous TV viewing and Web browsing.

Without any shadow of doubts, there exist a compatibility between digital signal and

the analogue signal during transition because there will be simultaneous transmission from the

same transmitters for a while. This is to make room for gradual migration.

The benefits of digital broadcasting are enormous. In an interview with Mr. Ahmed

Rufai, the managing Director and chief Executive officer of the National Air space Research

Development Agency (NASRDA) he said

Once your transmission is digitalized, it means that

through the net you can go continental or even global.

We cover about 38 African countries. All you need is to

uplink into the satellite and link to a digitalized receiver

before you go to your FM, AM or UHF frequencies.

(Von Airwaves Magazine).

In other words, Mr. Rufai is implying that satellite broadcasting to international

audience from Nigeria is very possible, if we migrate to digital and through Nigcomsat – 1, a

hybrid geostationary satellite for Nigeria that will radically enhance performance in

telecommunications, but the conception the satellite, ICT, broadcasting and the print will be

discussed later. Although the deadline of 2012 for the migration was received with shock and

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trepidation, stakeholders are beginning to see new opportunities for profitable investment in

the transformation of the industry to the digital platform. Digitization will make more

frequencies available and currently the airspace of major cities are fully occupied and cannot

take TV and radio frequencies, therefore digitization will open the jammed airspace.

Broad street journal 32 edition published a story captioned “The cross over palaver”

by Oluchi Obiozor who quoted the DG of NBC, Abayomi Bolarinwa as saying that the

analogue spectrum can accommodate a certain number of channels so as to avoid interference,

but on digital spectrum, more frequencies can be lodged.

This is so, because analogue transmission consumes wide bandwidth that leads to

inefficient use of the spectrum, but digital technology can transmit about 6 channels

simultaneously from one station in the same bandwidth originally used for a single channel in

analogue transmission, reports Broadstreet journal. Therefore, digital requires less space for

transmission. For instance 9 mega watts can transmit several channels.

2.7 The Role of Independent Transmission Companies

In a digital era a signal distribution group will emerge as an independent company

licensed to provide digital transmitters to carry signals for broadcasters unlike what happens

in an analogue set up where broadcasters provide their transmitters.

The NBC DG Bolarinwa says that already several entrepreneurs are lining up for

licenses to operate the service. One salient attraction the digital age gives is easy requirement

to float a broadcast station. In the analogue dispensation, a personal transmitter (TX), large

space to accommodate giant TX equipment of about 1000 square feet in the neighborhood of

200million Naira and studio equipment will be required, inspite of its limited coverage,

27

whereas with digitization the cost is reduced, because digital equipment is small and easier to

maintain.

Nosa Osawe, cited in Broad street journal, noted that; “you can set up an outfit in a

very small place and still do a lot because the broadcast equipment is advanced and you don‟t

require a big space to operate”.

The NBC Director General Bolarinwa corroborated this assertion by saying;

In the digital era, it is possible for you to get your

license today and in a week you are on air, because you

are not looking for transmitters and land. All you need

is play – out machine and the feed to your signal

distributor.

It is therefore not an over statement to say that digitization is “broadcasting made

easy” that will change the face of the nations broadcast industry.

One can go on to enumerate the advantages of digitization as facilitating interactivity,

new ways of programming with innovative services, additional entertainment, diversity of

voices and languages. According to DG of NBC Bolarinwa, it comes with added services such

as internet, multimedia, banking, home shopping, video on demand and pay per view

packages” and Nosa Osawe made addition to the list with “clearer pictures, clearer sounds,

compression of space, use of lower digital power to cover wider area and mobile reception of

video from TV stations”.

It then stands to reason, that the new platform will accelerate national productivity

through widespread availability of cutting-edge and information and communication

technology services for business, which will positively influence Nigeria‟s global

competitiveness. There will be business in the manufacture of set top boxes or converters that

allows viewers use their 40 million analogue TV sets to receive digital signals in Nigeria.

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Already, the NBC is inviting and giving incentives to foreign companies to set up factories for

the production of boxes.

This study is very serious to find out the readiness of Nigerian broadcasters to acquire

these new skills especially the retraining of Engineering staff, studio equipment and camera

operators, announcers, presenters and producers on how to use the digital gadgets – to

enhance professional competence. This will no doubt come with a huge cost to media owners.

2.8 Understand Broadcast Digitization and its functions

Engineer Friday Ojone Ukwela, writing in NBC News observed that, “the

International Telecommunication Union (ITU) council resolution 1185 on Digital Terrestrial

broadcasting set the path for digital broadcasting”.

The meeting aimed at converting from analogue to digital began from 2004. The

conversion undoubtedly is to improve reception quality and ensure efficient use of the

broadcast spectrum. Interference of signals is not a problem in digital platform.

Ukwela recounted that in Nigeria the journey towards digital transmission started

since June 17, 2006 and will end June 17, 2015, when every television services in Nigeria

would have been completely digitized.

Nigeria as a matter of fact has Set 2012 as switch off date when the old analogue will

give way for digital transmission.

To understand digital transmission at a glance, it is necessary to follow this sequence:

First, is the change in “resolution” The Resolution according to Ukwela, controls the crispness

and detail in the picture you see. Secondly the resolution is determined by the number of pixels

29

on the screen. Resolution for digital transmission means sharp and crystal clear pictures on TV

screen and higher Radio audio qualities.

In the case of transmitters, analogue technology required high power to radiate signals

and a wide consumption of bandwidth that leads to inefficient use of the frequency spectrum.

Whereas a digitized format demands very little spectrum and lower power for transmission.

Again Ukwela gave an example of this, when he said:

Four programmes/one channel could be transmitted

simultaneously from a station using the same

bandwidth originally used for single programme/single

channel in analogue transmission.

In my view the multi signals transmitted simultaneously can be confusing to the

receiver in terms of choice. Any channel that is not utilized by the consumer due to the

availability of multiple channels will experience low viewership or listnership and drops in

advertising sales which may affect the finance of the broadcast station.

The foregoing gives broadcast professional the impression that digital transmission

will offer not only high quality audio and video but additional broadcast subsidiaries such as

internet, Home shopping, Banking, Multimedia, pay per view and accelerated data

transmission, uninterrupted flow of data at a longer distance, interactive programming.

It is interesting to note that even the lower digital transmitter power has the capacity to

cover wider area which the analogue transmitter, in spite of high power cannot achieve. The

compression and efficient or maximum performance of digital devices is a milestone in

technology innovations. Having seen the optimum use of their professional expertise,

broadcasters will covet this technological wonders called digital broadcasting and that will

include major stakeholders such as the consumers, the regulators and the government because

of the benefits inherent.

30

Broadcast professionals, are of the opinion that there must be successful

implementation of the transition which should be facilitated by well articulated policy,

regulations and licensing.

The legal and regulatory framework will form the basis for investment, growth and

sustenance of broadcasting services and dispute resolution, efficiency and competitiveness

and responsiveness to needs of the audience, less cumbersome licensing process and

assignment of frequencies, according to Ukwela.

In view of this, the development of broadcasting services will reflect a sense of

national identity and cultural diversity to be in synergy with local content development to

meet international standards. Broadcast professionals are of the opinion that ownership and

control of broadcasting services should also be diversity to reduce government interference

and media hegemonies.

Broadcast professionals are advocating fair competition, innovation and investment in

the industry, with an assurance for social responsibility and respect for codes of practice.

Ukwela, page 32, in his treatise, continued to address the perspectives of broadcast

professionals by adding that,

the successful transition to digital transmission entails,

organizing seminars, workshops on digital broadcasting to

address issues such as common broadcast facilities roles of

government, broadcasters, contents services providers,

multiplex operators, signals distributors, consumers and

transition time table.

As the issues raised are being addressed of broadcasters should to take quantum leap

forward in the digitization of the industry.

2.9 The Role of National Broadcasting Commission

31

Engineer Friday Ojone Ukwela writing in NBC News bulletin vol. 10, page 32, was

emphatic on the midwifery role of the regulatory body. He asserted that;

The transition timetable is already being worked out by the National Broadcasting

commission to reflect the following concerns.

Transition strategy or action plan,

Consultation with all stakeholders on licensing framework

Development of digital broadcasting policy

Amendment of all broadcast regulatory Acts to incorporate digital broadcasting.

Consumer awareness and promotion campaign

Coordination with industry and manufacturers of broadcast equipment.

To this end, broadcast professionals perspective is that the National Broadcasting

Commission action plan should also include taking stock of broadcast infrastructure in the

country, harness the best broadcast brains that will form the think tank of digital groups, using

world best practice to formulate transition policy, advice government on licensing of the

bodies, advice Government on inputs on set top boxes, consumer education, and how to use

the spectrum that will be freed as a result of minimal space digitization needs in allocation of

frequency.

Finally, what happens to analogue Television and radio sets and the environmental

impact?

The Boss of NBC, Mr. Yomi Bolarinwa took a bold step in June 2008, in Port

Harcourt seminar with the theme Migration of Broadcast stations; the Economic political and

Engineering imperative in which I was the master of ceremony and where the topic for my

research first was conceived. He said workshops; more seminars inviting resource persons to

speak on the issue are on-going to show the seriousness of the federal government and the

NBC. He reiterated the efforts of NBC to ensure that all loopholes are blocked for a

successful transition. Perhaps, it is expedient to re emphasis the statement credited to the

32

former Minister of Information Mr. John Odey, to drive home the point that the issue of

digitization of broadcast stations should be taken seriously by professionals and practitioners.

He said:

Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind in broadcast

digitization going on around the world, in view of the

drastic consequences to our broadcast industry and the

overall information sector. NBC News (2008:6)

This statement was made in a gathering of broadcast professionals and the aim was to

critically examine the implications of transition to digital broadcasting and to advice

government on the formulation of a durable framework for the digitization process in Nigeria.

Though many, professionals doubted its workability, but the points were well understood that

in that era, programmes content was paramount.

Shola Taylor, a broadcast Engineer based in the United Kingdom, there and then

advised the Nigerian professionals to concentrate on contents while other bodies should

provide the equipment NBC News (2008:7)

This statement is in tandem with the views of the NBC boss Mr. Yomi Bolarinwa who

said earlier that companies responsible for setting up transmitters will be licensed, to take

charge of signals distribution alone, whereas broadcasters will be confined to the studios and

their programmes. They are required to subscribe to the transmitting companies. This was in a

view to dousing the tension generated by the expensive migration.

In South Africa, my experience in 2004 in several radio stations I visited such as

Jakaranda FM, 5FM, Y FM, Kaya FM and many others, showed, that those stations only

generate the signals or programmes which are sent through electro magnetic relay systems to

the transmitting companies that radiate such signals. In other words, there is division of

labour.

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2.10 The Challenges of Digitization

Ever since, the introduction of digitization, with its beauty and grandeur, a lot of fear

have been expressed of the negative sides of its effect. The constraints are numerous, to

include the cost of reception and the fees charged by internet providers, digital interactivity

cost, TV set, set top boxes and connections with telecommunications networks. There is the

obvious case of media literacy that enables the easy navigation and appreciation of the new

media, thereby giving rise to digital divide.

In a society where maintenance culture is almost non-existent, upgrading of

technologies will pose a serious challenge.

Furthermore, pressure will be mounted on local programmes contents due to the

acquisition of foreign mass produced programmes which are digitally aided. This will

translate into high indigenous programmes production that will be unattractive to sponsors. It

means the local culture will be eroded and jettisoned in fovour of foreign culture from global

media players.

Increased training and retraining of media operatives will be required. With a

corresponding cost and over-heads, and dependence on the developed countries for such

services

According to Liwhu Betiang, a lecturer in University of Calabar, writing in NBC News

(2008);

there are further complications; what happens to the

non-recyclable analogue equipment which becomes out

dated with digitization and migration. The economic

waste that arise wit their disposal or non disposal can

only be imagined if we see what obtains today with

second had cars, air conditioners, refrigerators, and

34

computer hardware. These already have begun to

threaten environmental health.

He forewarned that a near season of dumping syndrome will follow the removal of

analogue devices in the industry, because we cannot manage waste of whatever definition

Liwhu Betiang quoted former NBC Director General, Silas Yisa who Summarized this

complication when he remarked that the ITU universal dateline for analogue-digital

transition will give rise to the complex issues of organization. Policy, regulation and human

resources development. As stated earlier there is the need to raise public awareness of the

impending analogue to digital transition, it is another form of training that should run side by

side wit that of media operations.

It is the perception of Broadcasters that taxation and import duties on broadcast

equipment should be relaxed for a while, to serve as incentive that will cushion the effects of

the mass transition.

While regulators are advised to create adequate public awareness on digital

transmission and also follow the timetable for the switch over religiously.

Meanwhile another area of concern is the interoperability of system. The method that

allows the equipment in vogue to receive content from any other service provider. This is in a

bid to forestall a situation where, for instance a decoder meant for service provider A, cannot

receive service provider B if there is subscription for B. therefore interoperability will make it

mandatory for one device for all service providers so long as there is subscription to the

service provider especially in cable Television.

However, Engineer Friday Ukwela, writing in NBC News (2008) on, what about

Digitization? Took a swipe on our readiness saying;

35

so far African countries like South Africa, Tanzania and

Kenya have on ground solid policy documents,

regulatory framework, licensing framework and well

defined road map for smooth transition …Awareness

campaign are on-going in some African countries like

South Africa and Tanzania with budgets for the

transition. South Africa has set up digital groups and

government sponsored pilot digital transmission is in

place. Mauritous and Germany have already gone

digital.

Ukwela said the journey is just beginning in Nigeria but of a truth the NBC has

organized several sensitization workshops and seminars for stake holders particularly the

broadcast operators. That is not all, position papers have been forwarded to government and

the switch over date June 17, 2012, while globally the deadline is 2015.

It is incumbent on Nigeria, therefore, to give clear and focused direction for the

implementation of the transition as there are risks for further delay. The risk could emanate

from the fact that the production of spare for analogue will be phased out. Manufacturers are

gradually closing the production line for analogue equipment and concentrating on the

production of digital equipment. It means there is no choice than to join the digital transition.

Another area that needs clarification is in TV boxes that carry the digital compliant

inscriptions of DTT or DTTV (Digital Terrestrial Television) and DTV (which is Digital

Television) DTT or DTTV is the European standard that is adopted by Nigeria. DTV is

American technology standard which cannot receive signal in Nigeria terrain. Mr. Yomi

Bolarinwa, the Director General of National Broadcasting Commission, gave this privileged

information to stakeholders and consumers in a press luncheon in Abuja

He said “television buyers also have to ensure before they pay for TV box, that such

has the digital compliant inscription of DTT or DTTV and not DTV.”

36

It is worthy to note that “DTT, the Nigerian standard is a digital technology that

provide greater number of channels, better picture qualities and sound, using aerial broadcast

a conventional antenna instead of satellite dish or cable connection” according to the Nation

Newspaper, December 22, 2008, page 19.

This explanations become necessary as NBC steps up its digital awareness campaign

to ensure the rights of Nigerian to quality broadcasting ahead of the 2012 deadline the

Nigerian government has set as the switchover date concludes the Nations Newspaper, page

19.

2.11 The Role of Electricity

The peculiarities of the Nigerian environment such as high level of illiteracy,

unreliable and erratic power supply occasioned by ineptitude and mass corruption in high

places will pose a great challenge to the operation of digital equipment. It will undoubtedly

increase cost for broadcast stations and other users of digital technologies due to over

dependence on petrol or diesel for power generation. The installation of digital broadcast

equipment will be preceded by power conservation device called the U.P.S. The U.P.S. is

battery like device that supplies power in case of general power failures. Te acquisition of the

U.P.S is an additional cost to broadcast stations that tends to avoid breaks in transmission.

The government as a mater of national exigency ought to find quick solution to the

perennial power problem in the country to avoid jeopardizing the digitization process. Most of

the digital devices are manufactured in countries that never experience power failures.

Therefore power interruptions could have negative impact on the equipment and its

performance and slows down attraction for investors.

2.12 Media Hegemony

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Writing in NBC News, on „digitization and the challenges for broadcasting industry‟,

Liwhu Betinany examined the negative impact of media hegemonies in a digital era. He

quoted Enrique Bustamante as saying that;

a complete conversion of the cultural industries into

institutions defined by finance”Mr. Betiang went

further to sound a note of warning by saying.

We are today no longer strangers to the hand of World

Bank, the IMF and world trade organization (WTO)

behind third world national development planning,

structural adjustment strategies as well as deregulation

of all sectors of the economy, media concentration and

globalization. Just as we now have the big-five

commercial global media conglomerates like Time

warner, AOL, News corporation, Disney Viacom and

Bertelsmam, who determine what the world sees, hears,

thinks or talks or talks about. There are also industry

drivers in the broadcasting telecommunication

hardware manufacturing sector.

From the professional perspective, it will be a Herculean task for local, small and

medium scale creative industries, media managers and endangered local cultures to relate or

compete with these global hegemonies without putting in danger national interest. Already

there is the imitation of foreign culture that contain irritating and absurd abuses, raps, hip hop

music and the worship of European football teams that take priority over local news and

contents. Certainly it has the potential to depress local creativity. Betiang on page 23, went

further to support this assertion when he said.

The appropriation by global media corporations of

technological awareness in digitization for increased.

Production of cultural goods, their vertical integration

strategy, mergers and acquisition tactics tend to limit

entry for local third world investors into the

broadcasting market, and at the same time maximize

profit for themselves.

38

The monopoly enjoyed by foreign media conglomerate will increase in a digital era,

due to their dominance of technology and science. The impact on our culture, media contents,

provision of digital technology, the transfer of knowledge and cost of acquisition of Broadcast

equipment will be dictated by the hegemonies. Breaking of the monopoly is the basis for

development communication in the developing world.

2.13 The Position of Nigcomsat-1

After keeping the truth from Nigerian for weeks, the federal government finally

admitted that Nigcomsat -1 had broken down. That it had damaged beyond repairs and now

maneuvered to the parking orbit where it cannot be recovered for use again. Ahmed Rufai

managing director of the Nigeria Com Sat Ltd Nest, confirmed the loss of the facility before

the House of Rep committee on Science and Technology to clarify recent reports on the state

of the Satellite. He noted that

The loss barely 18 months after lunch was not a bizarre

because a total of 18 satellites were lost in 2008 alone.

That this informs the rationale for backups satellites

and insurance as experts‟ advised that a one satellite is

a decided gamble. Half of the power was lost from the

South solar array due to a single event offset, leaving

the North solar Array as the only source of power.

Unfortunately a single event occurred on the North

solar panel on Nov. 9, 2008 during a non eclipse

position. Whereas the batteries is of the satellite were

only supposed to discharge during eclipse and recharge

in non-eclipse situation while the solar array served as

the source of power to the satellite. A rescue operation

performed on the satellite by the manufactures was

abortive, and therefore deorbited to avoid total loss of

power control which could result in damage to other

satellite in orbit or even to aircraft in flight and that

mean heavy fines from ITU and liabilities to other

nations under UN outer space treaties.

It was fully insured, and the Chinese are committed to

quick solution. The collateral was satellite- therefore

39

replacement and a back up Nigcomsat 2 -3. will come

on case of any eventuality Amaefule wrote in Puneh

wed 12 Nov. 2008, fears over Nigeria‟s satellite

Nigcomsat-1 said fear emerged on Tuesday that

Africa‟s first geosynchronous communication satellite

Nigcomsat 1 might have been cost in space,

unconfirmed industry sources claimed that the satellite

could not be found in its launched position in orbit

37,000 kilometres above the Earth.

Though managing Director of Nigcomsat Mr. Ahmed Rufai told correspondent that

the satellite had a challenge which had been resolved Nigcomsat 1, built at the cost of 450 m

dollars by China great wall industry corporation was the first geo com sat lunched on May 13,

2007 at 1601 GMT, aboard a Chinese long march 3B carrier rocket from the Xichiang

satellite centre. It had a lunch mass of 5, 150kg and life span of 15yrs. It carried variety of

transponders such as 4C-band, 14 KU-band, 8ka-band and two L-band. Target areas of

business are telecommunications, broadcasting, internet, real-time monitoring services and

navigation and global positioning system.

Nigsatcom is a company under the federal Min of Science and tech with a mission to

be leading communications satellites operators and service providers. It is a public private

partnership with private sector envisaged to have controlling share. Nigtcomsat shall provide

comprehensive transmission and application service via digital and analogue system, direct

broadcast satellite services etc.

This very vital information was supplied by Everest Amaefula who wrote in punch,

wed 12 Nov. 2008 and Mr. Anza Philips, Abuja bureau of News watch magazine Sunday 23rd

Nov. 2008.

The twin contributions of these gentlemen of the press is an eye opener to broadcast

professional of the failure of a mega billion Naira Satellite that ought to facilitate the

40

transition to digital with ease. The shock and awe precipitated by the collapse of Nigcomsat 1,

leaves the industry in utter bewilderment.

Professionals are asking why Nigeria government should trust the competence of the

Chinese company, considering their track record of cheating and production of substandard

goals and services. The industry will wait for years again to actualize their dream of having a

replacement. Since the satellite was insured and the collateral is a replacement if it was lost.

2.14 The Dimension of Digital Divide

Like in the previous cases such as computer literacy, one of the animosities that will

be generated locally and globally is digital divide. It is a superiority contest between two

opposing camps.

Again quoting from his master piece in the NBC News bulletin, page 19, Mr. Liwhu

Betiang, wrote on the topic “Digitization and the challenges for Nigeria Broadcasting

Industry” and alerted broadcasters on the monstrous dimension of the divide, when he quoted

Bustamante on page 25 who argued that,

Digital divide is not just the simplistic division between

the digitally- connected and not connected as

commonly assumed. Digital divide appears in the

division between levels of purchasing power reinforced

cultural knowledge and codes, between those who

possess strategic competitive information against those

with mere superficial and escapist knowledge.

The author was stating the obvious, which is the strength and weaknesses of two

groups that are involved in broadcast digitization. Some will be empowered financially in and

41

knowledge, in the world of digitization whereas the others will take the back seat in the

shadows of the subject matter. These two extreme situations will impinge on knowledge or

the lack of it, finance and seriousness on the part of participants.

Liwhu Betiang continued citing Bustanmante in page 25 further noted that,

there will be division between producers and

consumers of knowledge as seen in our technological

dependence syndrome, between nations that exploit

their own cultures and others‟ cultures, and those

whose cultures are given up as free raw materials for

other cultures to exploit

True, this assertion was evident in GSM manufacturers and the third would consumer

nations who are made to pay exorbitant amounts to purchase even inferior handsets. In other

technologies, the developing nations are still consumer nations of the technologies from

advance countries. And as such producer nations dictate the apace in pricing and modeling for

the poor consumer nations whose budget may not be able to accommodate the huge finances

involved sanctions can be imposed for political reasons on consumer nations that appear

adamant to correction or refuse to adopt the ideologies of the West as in the case of Cuba,

Iran, Zimbabwe etc.

Therefore, knowledge and availability of digital technology is the weapon for the

divide.

Bustamnte is in agreement with this point of view when he said the divide is between

countries, regions and societies which are rich and industrialized and the poor and non-

industrialized

These monstrous dimensions of digital divide are capable of making it difficult for

professionals and consumers of these digital compartments to have equal benefits from the

digital revolution and the inevitable migration.

42

Liwhu Betciang citing Pike and Winseck said Digitization therefore becomes a technocratic

problem created by globalization with its spread of so-called modernity, civilization and the

march of technology.

Liwhu Betciang quoting Bustamante who also quoted Narvaez in page 25 has this to

say finally that;

With the nature of digitization and the prevalent digital

divide, the new digital technologies are unable to

realize the hopes of the economic redemption for the

poorest countries and above all, the poorest regions of

the world.

The reason for this conclusion is that global capitalism has the propensity to

concentrate its wealth or capital in the richest markets which will exclude the poor masses

from what should be their fair share of public space, Betiang remarked in page 26. From the

foregoing therefore, there is some inherent danger in the fatalistic, unquestioning acceptance

of technologies and modernity as general or given model for development. The need to

advance in technology, mass literacy, the uses of modern technology, public awareness of the

availability of modern technology, seriousness and dedication in its application by the society

in a conducive environment and economic empowerment is the bridge for digital and any

other technology divide in a globalize economy.

Infact, the authors failed or forgot to acknowledge the fact that the impact of digital

divide will reverberate in the broadcast stations. As a broadcaster I do know that staffs of the

stations that are well equipped with the state of the art digital gadgets are usually arrogant

towards the staff of the ill-equipped stations. The result of this will be jealousy, rivalry, and

resentment between operational staff and on-air personnel. It therefore behooves on the media

owner to equip and train all staff of the media for equal competitive environment.

43

However the entire broadcast digital hoopla is getting an assurance from the NBC

Boss Mr. Bolannwa to allay the fears being expressed by Nigerians when he said in

Broadstreet journal, Aug 11, 2008 edition, page 18 that,

We are looking for mean of making these things

affordable because the success of the transition is not

when every broadcast station is transmitting digitally;

the success is when viewers and listeners get signals in

the digital era.

It was for this reason; companies were invited to establish set up box manufacturing

factories in the country. When knowledge is nearer home, the case of digital divide will be

minimal.

44

REFERENCES

Amaefula, E. (2008). Punch Newspaper, 12, Nov.

Baran, S.J. (2004). Introduction to Mass Communication Media Literacy and Culture 3rd

ed.

New York: McGraw Hill.

Baran, S.J. and Davis, D.K. (2003). Mass Communication Theory: foundations, forment, and

future (3rd ed.). California: Thompson Wadsworth.

Betiang, L. (2008). Digitization and the Challenges for Nigeria broadcasting industry. NBC

News vol. 10, No.2

Communiqué, (2008) Digitization and its implications: stakeholders Meeting Abuja.

Dominick, J.R. (2002). Dynamics of Mass communication: Media in digital age (7th

ed.).Boston: McgrawHill.

Garba, S. (2008). The challenges of Digital Switch over in Africa. Von Airwaves, Vol 2, No,

6.

Idowu, B. (2008). Some HD-ready TVs will not work in 2012. The Nation newspaper,

December 22.

McQuail, D. (2007). McQuail‟s Mass Communication theory. (5th ed.) London: Sage

Publication.

NBC News. (2008). Digitization: Possibilities and challenges. April-June, vol. 10, No.2.

Obiozor, O. (2008.) The Crossover Palaver. Broadstreet Journal, (32nd ed.)

Philip, A. (2008). The 40 billion Naira Nigcomsat I mess. Newswatch magazine. 23rd

Nov.

http://www.newswatch ngr.com

Rodman, G. (2006). Mass Media in a changing world history, Industry and controversy. New

York: McGraw Hill

45

CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Design

This study adopts the survey method of research. According to Asika (2006:13),

Survey method of research focuses on population or the

universe from which data are collected for study and

analyzed. In the words of Okoro (2001:37) “survey

method of research is useful in the measurement of

public opinion, attitude and orientation which are

dominant among a large population at a particular

period.

In the light of the above definitions, survey research method becomes highly useful in

the field of social behavioural sciences and indeed most appropriate for this study that deals

with the Nigerian experience of broadcasting migration from analogue to digital (a study of

Radio Rivers 99.1 fm Port Harcourt Love 97.5fm Port Harcourt, Rivers State television

channels 55 PH, Cosmo 105.5 fm Enugu.

3.2 Population of Study

The nature of the topic understudy has compelled one to sample the staff of Radio

Rivers PH (state) love fm PH (private), RSTV PH (state), Cosmo fm Enugu (Private) who are

in the best position to supply the relevant information so as to realize the objectives of this

study.

3.3 Sample Size

It will be extremely difficult to study the entire population of staff in the broadcast

industry in Nigeria. Wimmer and Dominick, (2003:96) rightly observed that “determining an

adequate sample size is one of the most controversial aspects of sampling. However in a bid

46

to get the right sample size for this study, it is vital to adhere to the views of a research scholar

Nwanna (1981:81) inter allia:

If the population is a few hundreds, a 40% or more

samples will do; if many hundreds, a 20% sample will

do; if a few thousands, a 10% sample will do; and if

several thousands, a 5% or fewer samples will do.

With reference to this postulation by Nwanna the researcher sees the population of all

staff of Nigeria broadcast stations as several thousands and therefore chose to sample 300

respondents of 75 each as 5% of the entire population of the purposively selected broadcast

stations: Radio River PH, RSTV, PH, Cosmos fm Enugu, and love fm PH.

3.4 Sampling Procedure

The purposively or judgmental sampling method is apt in this study based on the

assertion of Wimmer and Dominick (2003:88) that says

“Purposive sampling includes only objects or elements selected for specific

characteristics or qualities and eliminates those that fail to meet the criteria”.

The purposive sampling method enables the researcher to pick two Radio stations and

one television station from the South South geopolitical zone that made tremendous impact in

broadcasting and one radio station from the south East geopolitical zone, representing private

and government owned media of high repute.

The outstanding performances of these stations attracted the research on their staff

which will be studied.

3.5 Data Analysis / Discussion

The data collected for this study would be analyzed using frequency distribution

tables, simple percentages and such other statistical tools where necessary.

47

48

REFERENCES

Asika, N. (2006). Research Methodology in the Behavioural Science. Lagos: Longman

Nwanna, O. (1981). Introduction to Educational Research. Ibadan: Heinemann Educational

Books Ltd.

Okoro, N. (2001) Mass Communication Research; Issues and Methodologies. Nsukka: AP

Express.

Wimmer, R.D. and Dominick, J.R. (2003). Mass Media Research: An Introduction (7th ed)

Belmont Wadsworth Publishing Company.

49

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS AND RESULTS

This research took a painstaking study and comparative analysis of broadcast stations

of high repute in the south east and South South geo-political zones, namely Radio Rivers 2,

99.1 FM Port Harcourt, Rivers state Television channel 55UHF Port Harcourt (government

owned), Love 97.7 FM Port Harcourt and Cosmo 105.5 FM Enugu (Private) to represents

Nigeria broadcast stations. It is strongly believed that all Nigeria broadcast stations are similar

in character, operation and experience, therefore there is justification in the findings of this

research as representative of Nigeria stations.

This chapter is a presentation of analysis of data collected from the respondents drawn

from the four stations who are broadcast staff and professionals of different cadre, whose

opinion is the yardstick to measure the desirability and readiness of broadcast migration form

analogue to digital.

Meanwhile, 300 copies of questionnaires were distributed to respondents, and in the

process I discovered that the 2 private broadcast stations have less than 30 staff each. In view

of this discovery, 25 copies each were administered to the private stations while the two

governments owned station shared 125 each. All questionnaires were filled and collected on

the spot that means 300 questionnaires were returned.

Research Question 1: What kind of equipment does Nigerian broadcasters use, analogue,

computer or digital?

To have a clear view of the utility value of what existed in the industry and transition

and acceptability of a more superior and sophisticated version. Two questions were asked.

1. What kind of equipment do you work with?

2. Are you comfortable with the analogue devices you are using.

50

Table 1: Distribution of responses on the kind of Equipment they are working with

Respondents Frequency

Mechanical % Computer %

Radio Rivers 125 100% 100%

Cosmo FM 25

Rivers television 125 100%

Love FM 10 40% 15 60%

The first questions that was dealt with was on the kind of equipment that are in

operation in the stations, which are in 3 categories of manual, mechanical and computer aided

devices. 165, which is 55% of respondents said they have been provide with computers for

broadcasting operations, while 135, which 45% are still using the obsolete manual/mechanical

devices. Radio Rivers that appears to have the largest respondents who are mechanical in

operation quickly installed computer in all arms of the station just after the research. I am

privy to this privileged information.

This implies that there is rapid shift towards computerization, to eventual digitization.

Table 2: Distribution of responses on the comfortability of the old system; the analogue

devices?

Respondents Frequency Total Percentage

Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 0 0 125 100% 100%

Cosmo FM 0 0 25 100% 100%

Rivers television 0 0 125 100% 100%

Love FM 10 40% 15 60% 100%

In a bid to find out, if broadcast professionals are still in love with the analogue

system, the study shows that a staggering 285, (95%) respondents said no, only 15, (5%) said

51

yes. It means media operators are yearning for a change in the industry. The technology

determinism theory of McQuail satisfies the desire of broadcasters to actualize this dream

which is technology driven.

Research Question 2: How many stations under study are computerized and automated?

This question was precipitated by the demands at the new technology that deals with

digits and conversion of atoms into electronic data. Computerization and automation are the

veritable instruments of operations on a digital platform. In the strength of this, three

questions were asked.

1. Have you received computer education?

2. Is your station computerized

3. Do you have automated system?

Table 3. Distribution of Responses on Computer Education for Broadcast professionals

Respondents Frequency Total Percentage

Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 100 80% 25 20% 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 0 100%

Love FM 15 60% 10 40% 100%

Due to the desire by media professionals for change, it becomes pertinent to ask if

operations personnels are being trained individually or by the of broadcast stations. It is

indeed gratifying to note that 265, (88.3%) respondents are computer literate while 35,

(11.7%) are yet to be trained. The balance of the scale tilt towards massive Computer literacy

and that is a good omen for digitization.

52

Table 4: Distribution of Responses on Broadcast stations that are already computerized

Respondents Frequency Total Percentage

Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 15 12% 110 88% 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 0 0 100%

Love FM 20 80% 5 20% 100%

The target date of 2012 must be met by all stations, and to actualize this lofty goal,

stations ought to be computer compliant or computerized at once. 185, (61.7%) respondents

said their stations are computerized, while 115, (38.3%) said no. there is improvement in this

area. However, Radio Rivers got computerized after the collection of data. It simply means all

stations are almost computerized, and ready for the next phase which is digitization.

Table 5: Distribution of Responses on the automated broadcast stations

Respondents Frequency Percentage

Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 0 0 125 100% 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 0 0 100%

Love FM 15 60% 10 40% 100%

Automation is the use of machines to do work previously done by people. In

Broadcasting, 24 hours service will require machines to do part of the job, because digital

equipment do not tolerate frequent break in transmission or shutdowns. How many stations

are ready to meet the challenges of automation in digital setting? 165, (55%) respondents said

53

they are automated, whereas 135, (45%) said no. physical inspection of the broadcast stations

shows that all the 3 stations are automated, only Radio Rivers that is not automated.

Research Question 3: How much awareness will be required for broadcasters and the public

before the digital switchover?

It is often said that the people perish due to lack of knowledge and uninformed society

is a dark society. In the light of this statement there ought to be three prong awareness. Firstly,

NBC deadline should be relayed to all broadcast practitioners and professionals, secondly,

there should be awareness of the impending change in the industry and thirdly the recipient

public must be informed and equipped for the imminent change.

Therefore the question that were asked are

1. Are you aware of NBC deadline of digitization of the stations?

2. Is it possible to switchover your analogue devices to digital

3. What efforts one in place to digitize.

Table 6. Distribution of Respondents on the awareness of NBC 2012 deadline

Respondents Frequency Percentage

Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 125 100% 0 0 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 0 0 100%

Love FM 20 80% 5 20% 100%

Out of 300 respondents sampled a whopping 295, (98.3%) are aware of the NBC

migration deadline before 2012, and only 5, (2.7%) feigned ignorant of it. It shows that the

level of awareness is adequate to necessitate or engender change Mr. John Odey, former

minister of information and communication in NBC News Vol. 10, No 2, June 2008, said

54

“Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind in the broadcast digitization going on around the

world in view of the drastic consequences to our broadcast industry and the overall

information sector.”

That assertion serves as the death-knell for analogue broadcasting and broadcasting

professionals are taking it seriously.

Table 7: Distribution of responses on the possibility of the switch over form analogue to

digital

Respondents Frequency Percentage

Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 125 0 0 0 100%

Cosmo FM 25 0 0 0 100%

Rivers television 110 88% 15 12% 100%

Love FM 20 80% 5 20% 100%

In the face of backbreaking obstacles and trepidation of broadcast professionals,

towards digitization it is necessary to ask if the switch over is plausible before 2012. 280,

(93.3%) of the respondents are optimistic while 20, (7.7%) respondents are doubtful. The

number is an indicator of a smooth and massive transition

Table 8. Distribution of Responses in respect of efforts so far made towards digitization

Respondents Frequency Total Percentage

Training % Equipment %

Radio Rivers 90 72% 35 28% 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Rivers television 0 0 125 100% 100%

Love FM 5 20% 20 80% 100%

55

The indicator point towards the assemblage of new equipment as evident in 180,

(60%) respondents, while 120, (40%) are in favour of training. In my view, training and

purchase of Equipment are indices for the actualization of a successful migration

Research Question 4: What are the challenges/obstacles to digitization in the stations under

investigation?

The challenges as expected will be multifarious; as a result, respondents wee asked

1. Do you think your station will be in jeopardy if 2012 deadline is not met?

2. Do you think many broadcast stations will default?

3. are you happy with the migration

4. Will digitization enhance job performance?

5. What are the likely benefits of digitization?

These questions elicit Reponses as to the forces that will militate against the change

and ho to forestall them.

Table 9. Distribution of Responses of those whose are likely to be in jeopardy if the deadline

is not met.

Respondents Frequency

Total Percentage Not at all % Deeply worried %

Radio Rivers 0 0 125 100% 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 0 0 100%

Love FM 10 40% 15 60% 100%

The number of respondents who expressed fear of a clampdown if the target date is

not met is 140, (46.6%). This number is large enough to take the issue seriously although 160,

(53.4%) said they are not afraid. Their optimism is due to the activities in their stations that

point in the direction of speedy migration.

56

Table 10: Distribution of Responses of those who think many stations will default

This sampling segment shows apprehension of broadcast professionals who are of the

opinion that many broadcast stations will default which is 152, (50.7%) as against 148,

(49.4%) that said no. What formed this opinion may not be far from lacklustered attitude of

management of some broadcast station to put in place necessary tools for the take off.

Table 11: Distribution of Responses to show the state of mind of respondents: If they are

happy with digitization of broadcast stations

The highest number of respondents that said the same thing was recorded here. All

300, (100%) respondents expressed their happiness for the digitization of the broadcast

industry. This is indicative of the irreversibility of the migration or switch over initiative of

NBC, therefore all hands must be on deck to bring it to pass.

Respondents Frequency

Percentage Happy % Not happy %

Radio Rivers 125 100% 0 0 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 0 0 100%

Love FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Respondents

Frequency Total

Percentage Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 42 33.6% 83 66.4% 100%

Cosmo FM 5 20% 20 80% 100%

Rivers television 100 80% 25 20% 100%

Love FM 5 20% 20 80% 100%

57

Table 12: Distribution of Responses to show if digitization will enhance job performance

The response here is unanimous in favour of enhancing job performance. All 300,

(100%) respondents see digitization as the best communication technology initiative for the

broadcast industry.

Table 13. Distribution of responses on the likely benefits of digitization

190, (63.3%) respondents favour clarity of pictures quality, 35, (11.6%) said it will

create room for choice, while 25, (8.3%) respondents talk of multiple channels. Clarity of

signals appears to be uppermost in the minds of broadcast professional than choice and

multiple channels.

Research Question 5: what happens to the analogue devices that would be discarded and

dumped?

Respondents Frequency

Total Percentage Highly % Abysmal %

Radio Rivers 125 100% 0 0 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 0 0 100%

Love FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Respondents Frequency Total

Percentage Multiple channel % choice % clarity %

Radio Rivers 0 0% 35 28% 90 72% 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0% 0 0% 100%

Rivers television 0 0% 0 0% 125 100% 100%

Love FM 0 0% 0 0% 25 0% 100%

58

If digitization has commercial potentials, job opportunities and attractive to the public,

then analogue will be done away with like gramophone records and LPs. My literature review

dedicated a segment for the likely effects of dumping.

Therefore two questions were asked

1. Can digitization increase listenership or viewership?

2. Can digitization create more job opportunities?

If the answers are positive, that is the beginning of the end for analogue.

59

Table 14. Distribution of responses to show if digitization has the potential for increased

listenership or viewership

The respondents are evenly divided. 150, (50%) said it is likely to increase the

patronage of the audience and another 150, (50%) went for the superlative, that is, most

likely. It is therefore the opinion of media operators that digitization will attract more

customers and that can be translated into more revenue.

Table 15. Distribution of Responses on job creation opportunities of digitization

Out of 300 respondents, 170, (56.6%) said digitization cannot create job opportunities

due to automation capabilities of machines, whereas the remaining 130, (43.3%) said indeed it

will create jobs in ICT and Engineering areas only. Will this discovery kill the happiness

expressed by respondents earlier?

Respondents Frequency Total

Percentage Likely % More % Most %

Radio Rivers 125 100% 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 100%

Love FM 25 100% 100%

Respondents

Frequency

Total

Percentage

ICT Engineering

Yes % No % Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 35 28% 90 72% 0 0% 0 0% 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 100%

Rivers television 0 0% 0 0% 75

52% 60 48% 100%

Love FM 5 20% 20 80% 0 0% 0 0% 100%

60

Research Question 6: How many broadcast stations will be ready before 2012 deadline?

The main focus of this research is to ascertain the readiness of Nigerian broadcast

stations for mass movement to the digital platform. To this end doublebarell questions were

asked.

1. How ready is your station to migrate before 2012

2. Do you intend to be a strong advocate of your station to avoid NBC clampdown?

Table 16. Distribution of responses on the readiness of broadcast station for the migration

170, (56.6%) respondents tilt the scale of balance towards „not ready‟ before 2012,

125, (41.6%) said they are very ready while 5, (1.7%) respondents refused to answer the

question. What could be the reason for this negative response? The answers will be given in

the concluding part of the study.

Table 17. Distribution of responses on personal advocacy for the digitization of the stations

speedily

Respondents

Frequency Total

Percentage Not

ready %

Not

Sure % Ready %

Very

ready %

Not

Sure

%

Radio Rivers 125 100% 0% 100%

Cosmo FM 5 20% 0% 20 80% 100%

Rivers

television

25 20% 100 80% 100%

Love FM 5 20% 20 80% 100%

Respondents Frequency

Percentage Yes % No %

Radio Rivers 125 100% 0 0 100%

Cosmo FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

Rivers television 125 100% 0 0 100%

Love FM 25 100% 0 0 100%

61

Here again all respondents promised to speak for the quick and successful digitization

of segments of the broadcast industry and be ready to switch over before 2012. All 300,

(100%) respondents are in favour of going into dialogue with media owners to actualize the

dream.

62

CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 SUMMARY

This research work was necessitated by National Broadcasting Commission

instructions to all broadcast stations in Nigeria to change their moribund, and out dated

analogue technology to a more sophisticated digital technology, a coefficient of the

technology determinism theory, with the sole aim of crowning, broadcasting in Nigeria and

globally, with proficiency excellence and glory.

Analogue system is slow, clumsy and time and space consuming, therefore a paradigm

shift becomes a necessity which has come with technology change, after all what is permanent

in life is change. Digitization is the change to come in 2012 to the broadcasting industry.

Indeed digitization is the conversion of bits of information from Atoms that have

weight and size into electronic data and digits that move at the speed of light, messages or

signals can be copied a thousand times and still retains their original form and electronically

delivered in seconds with superior sound and picture qualities especially with the HDTV ultra

fabulous resolution power. Turning FM quality to AM and CD quality to the FM, no

distortion of signals, clearer picture, better sound quality, more accuracy, more frequencies in

a spectrum, compression of space, wider coverage through terrestrial or satellite broadcasting

and require just lower power to ignite digital stations and changing waves into digits. The

GSM and computer cyber world are fore runners of broadcasting digitization in the

international telecommunication union.

The research was born out of curiosity to understand better and faster ways for

broadcasting, which will engender excellent performance, and maximum satisfaction to actors

and spectators of the industry.

63

It is imperative to note, that the entire process is technology driven. Superior

technology produces superior broadcasting services and change, hence the application of

technology determinism theory propounded by McQuail. From the foregoing therefore, this

study has discovered that all stations are at fever pitch to inculcate massive computer literacy

operations. Besides, broadcast stations are undergoing computerization which is a foretaste of

digitization.

Automated devices are being installed in the broadcast stations that have the capability

to run 24 hours services none stop.

This study also revealed that NBC deadlines had been relayed to all broadcast stations

and professionals through memos, Seminars and workshops. Only the viewing and listening

public is unaware of this development.

The euphoria and enthusiasm among practitioner for the switchover was as a result of

nonchalant attitude of media owners to update and quip broadcast stations regularly, therefore

the mandatory NBC instruction will galvanize them into doing the right things for once. All

respondents agreed that switch-over is plausible, to that end all efforts are geared towards the

assemblage of new digital friendly equipment such as VCR, cameras, DVDs, microphones,

computers with broadcasting software, digital transmission modules and engineering

hardware. It is capable of infusing the dexterity and finesse of professional DJs, presenters

and producers.

This research observed that the challenges and obstacles are enormous but

surmountable.

However, the respondents who are deeply worried of the challenges that may jeopardize their

stations is 46.6%. Their fears emanated from loss of job. The 53.4% that appeared

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unperturbed have that audacity due to the flurry of activities towards digitization in their

stations. But when asked to comment if many stations will default 50.7% said yes as against

49.3%. The controversies on this result and the former were based on individual confidence.

Respondents feel their station will not be in jeopardy yet the same respondents feel many

stations will default. It is a matter of positive thinking for themselves and trepidation for

others.

In another development, the respondents applaud digitization but have reservations

about it‟s job creation potentials. The common denominator is automation which is a job

killer. Perhaps those who are going to be the greatest beneficiaries are ICT staff.

In my view therefore, such fears are well founded because automation does the job

humans can do, and profit maximizing media owners will exploit it. Digitization is beautiful

but when automation is added to it, fewer staff will be needed to run the broadcast stations.

Inspite of these likely shortcomings, this research has found digitization as the epitome

of presentation, operation, and broadcasting engineering. Nearly all respondents agreed that it

will emblazon broadcasting contents and outputs with clarity of pictures, superior sound

quality, uninterrupted or unathenuated sound signals, multiple channels and choice, separation

of transmission engineering and studio programming. When this happens there is the

likelihood of greater proficiency, utmost dedication, dexterity and finesse on the part of on-air

personnel who are the actual dramatis personae. The ICT staff and engineers will have jobs to

manipulate sophisticated computer networking and electronic gadgets. 43.3% of the

respondents said so.

To meet the target date of the digitization hoopla, 56.6% said they are not ready. The

reasons for this high percentage is not farfetched, the date is 2012, that is 4years from now. It

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is believed with mass computerization, training, gradual acquisition of digital modules and

equipment, many if not all stations will be ready and set to migrate.

Besides, 100% of respondents said of their willingness to strongly advocate for

digitization. They intend to achieve that through dialogue with their respective managements,

jingles and programmes presentations. The impact will be vivid and felt in both the broadcast

industry and outside. With regards to dumping of discarded analogue devices, caution has to

be taken to assemble all absolute materials for disposal. This is with the sole aim of avoiding

littering and environmental degradation as most of them are not biodegradable. The NBC

which is the regulatory body and the motivator of the migration, should quickly assembly a

think-tank of professional environmentalists to collect, assemble and propose method of

disposal or recycling of all analogue materials that are not useable from every broadcast

station around the country.

5.2 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this study observed the monstrous issue of digital divide, which is a

superiority contest between those who posses strategic competitive information against those

with mere superficial and escapist knowledge of digitization. In my opinion a level playing

field is required for all broadcasters to be armed.

Equally dangerous is the issue of media Hegemony, which concentrates media in the

hands of few, who are industry drivers in the broadcasting telecommunication hardware

manufacturing sector. This study has taken notice of their arm-twisting tactice that will stifle

local, small and medium scale creative industries, and endanger local cultures that cannot

compete with these, impossible foreign media conglomerates in an era of digitization. They

will come with dominance of technology and science.

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And to make matter worse, Nigcomsat 1, a communication satellite owned by Nigeria

with target area of business as telecommunication, broadcasting, internet, navigational and

global positioning system was lost in orbit due to system failure, thereby dashing the hopes

and aspirations of broadcasters for satellite broadcasting, although a replacement has been

promised by the Chinese great wall industry corporation.

In conclusion, therefore, this study make the following recommendations based on its

findings.

5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

1. All broadcast station should be given a time limit for the acquisition of digital

technology without delay.

2. The NBC should start issuing licenses to private signals transmission companies

so as to reduce the financial burden on media owners.

3. There should be frequent or quarterly inspection of broadcast stations henceforth,

to ascertain the level of preparedness, in terms of computerization and training of

all staff to avoid the case of digital divide in future

4. Massive public awareness campaign is imperative, to prepare and instruct the

public before 2012 on the impending migration

5. Environmental protection experts and engineers should be incorporated into NBC,

to kickstart the collection and disposal, of all analogue devices. This is to avoid

dumping and also engender good waste disposal habits

6. NBC should give broadcast stations guidelines on their staff strength. This is in a

bid to forestall understaffing the stations and creating job opportunities

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7. All departments of Mass Communication in the Universities should adjust their

curriculum to include practical broadcasting and digitization subjects such as

phonetics, applications, news reading technique, programmes presentation with the

aid of the new technology and computers.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

Books

Asika, N. (2006). Research Methodology in the Behavioural Science. Lagos: Longman.

Baran, S.J. (2004). Introduction to Mass Communication Media Literacy and Culture (3rd

ed.). New York: McGraw Hill.

Baran, S.J. and Davis, D.K. (2003). Mass Communication Theory: foundations, forment, and

future (3rd ed.). California: Thompson Wadsworth.

Dominick, J.R. (2002). Dynamics of Mass communication: Media in digital age (7th

ed.).Boston: McgrawHill.

McQuail, D. (2005). McQuail‟s Mass Communication theory. (5th ed.) London: Sage

Publication.

Nwanna, O. (1981). Introduction to Educational Research. Ibadan: Heinemann Educational

Books Ltd.

Okoro, N. (2001) Mass Communication Research; Issues and Methodologies. Nsukka: AP

Express.

Rodman, G. (2006). Mass Media in a changing world history, Industry and controversy. New

York: McGraw Hill

Udeajah, R. A. (2004). Broadcasting and Politics in Nigeria 1963-2003. Enugu: Snaap Press

ltd.

Wimmer, R.D. and Dominick, J.R. (2003). Mass Media Research: An Introduction (7th ed.)

Belmont Wadsworth Publishing Company.

Journals

Betiang, L. (2008). Digitization and the Challenges for Nigeria broadcasting industry. NBC

News vol. 10, No.2

Communiqué, (2008) Digitization and its implications: stakeholders Meeting Abuja.

Garba, S. (2008). The challenges of Digital Switch over in Africa. Von Airwaves, Vol 2, No,

6.

Obiozor, O. (2008.) The Crossover Palaver. Broadstreet Journal, (32nd ed.)

Internet Materials

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All Africa.com: Nigeria Digitization-transiting from analogue Pains to Digital Gains

http://www.digitalU.K.com

http://www.dtv.giv.FCC

http://www.uen.org./+v/d+v/Digital+v

http://wwwsunnewsonline.com, (2007). The sun publishing Ltd.

NBC News. (2008). Digitization: Possibilities and challenges. April-June, vol. 10, No.2.

Philip, A. (2008). The 40 billion Naira Nigcomsat I mess. Newswatch magazine. 23rd

Nov.

http://www.newswatch ngr.com

Newspaper/Magazines

Amaefula, E. (2008). Punch Newspaper, 12, Nov.

Idowu, B. (2008). Some HD-ready TVs will not work in 2012. The Nation newspaper,

December 22.

VON Airwaves magazine, vol. 2. No. 6 Count Down + digital switchover in Africa.

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APPENDIX

Department of Mass Communication,

University of Nigeria,

Nsukka – Enugu State.

December 2008

Dear Respondent,

REQUEST FOR COMPLETION OF QUESTIONNAIRE

This questionnaire is for the purpose of a research work that is in progress on the

challenges of Broadcast migration from analogue to digital technology: A case for Nigeria

Broadcasters. You are requested to supply the following information for the research.

Information supplied will be treated with utmost confidentiality and will be used for

academic purpose only. Year understanding and co-operation is highly appreciated.

ALALIBO TAMMY GOLDEN

PG/MA/07/42938

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Instruction: Please tick appropriately and supply the information to the open ended

questions where necessary.

Sex of Respondents

1. A male b. Female

2. What is your department?

a, Engineering b. Programmes c. News

d. Commercial e. Administration

3. Education Qualification?

a. WASC b. Bachelors Degree c. Masters Degree and above

d. Other Qualifications

4. What is your position?

a. Junior staff b. Senior staff

5. What kind of Equipment do you work with?

a. Manual b. Mechanical c. Computerized.

6. Are you comfortable with the analogue device you are using?

a. Yes b. No

7. Have you received computer education?

a. Yes b. No

8. Is your station computerized?

a. Yes b. No

9. Do you have automated system?

a. Yes b. No

10. Are you aware of NBC‟s deadline of digitization of the stations?

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a. Yes b. No

11. Is it possible to switchover your analogue devices to digital?

a. Yes b. No c. impossible

12. What efforts are in place to digitize?

a. training b. New equipment c. None

13. Do you think your station will be in jeopardy if the 2012 deadline is not met?

a. not at all b. worried c. deeply worried

14. Do you think many broadcasting stations will default?

a. Yes b. No

15. Are you happy with the migration to digital?

a. Happy b. Very happy c. not happy

16. Will digital devices enhance the performance of DJs, presenters, and newscasters?

a. Highly b. Abysmal

17. What are the likely benefits of digitization?

a. multiple channels b. choice c. clarity

d. No benefits e. Not sure

18. Can digitization of broadcasting create more?

a. Yes b. No

19. Can digitization increase listernership/viewership?

a. Likely b. More likely c. Most likely

20. How ready is your station to migrate before 2012?

a. Ready b. Very ready c. Not ready

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21. Do you intend to be a strong advocate of digitization of your station henceforth to

avoid NBC clampdown, if so how do you intend to achieve

this……………………………………………………………………………………….

…………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………?