New digital service allows Nigerians to access news, sports, and local content without monthly fees; NBC says initiative will boost jobs and digital inclusion

The Federal Government has formally launched FreeTV, a digital television platform offering Nigerians access to over 100 free channels, at an event in Abuja on Tuesday, June 17. The service forms part of the ongoing Digital Switch-Over (DSO) programme aimed at transitioning the country from analogue to digital broadcasting.

According to officials present at the unveiling, FreeTV enables households across Nigeria to view a wide range of content—including news, sports, movies, educational programming and indigenous language channels—without paying monthly subscription fees. Viewers can access the platform through compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders connected to their existing television sets or via the FreeTV mobile app on smartphones. Satellite and terrestrial signals have also been made available nationwide.

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) stated that FreeTV is designed to promote digital inclusion by ensuring that people in both urban and rural areas, regardless of income or location, can benefit from improved broadcasting technology. The commission emphasised that the initiative is expected to stimulate job creation within Nigeria’s media and creative sectors by supporting local content production and expanding opportunities for broadcast professionals.

Officials explained that regional production centres have already been established in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Benin City. These hubs are tasked with driving content development and are projected to generate employment for producers, editors, camera operators and technicians as Nigeria continues its shift towards a fully digital broadcasting ecosystem.

The federal government reiterated that users do not need to purchase new television sets if they already own compatible decoders. Authorities encouraged Nigerians to check their devices for compatibility as preparations continue for the final analogue switch-off scheduled for December 31, 2028. The NBC called on citizens nationwide to take advantage of the new platform as part of broader efforts to modernise broadcasting and improve information access across all regions.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/federal-government-launches-freetv-offers-nigerians-over-100-free-digital-tv-channels-2026061713145665374

Nigerian singer to perform alongside global stars as Obama Foundation opens new centre, with ceremony livestreamed worldwide

Nigerian music sensation Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has been confirmed as a performer at the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, United States, on Tuesday, 18 June. The announcement places the Lagos-born artiste as the only Nigerian and one of a select group of international acts featured in the high-profile event.

According to the Obama Foundation, Tems will share the stage with world-renowned musicians including Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Bono, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, Common, The Roots, Eddie Vedder, Marc Anthony and U2’s The Edge. Young American actress Marsai Martin is also slated to participate in the ceremony. The opening event will be livestreamed globally from the Centre’s John Lewis Plaza.

Tems’ inclusion marks another significant milestone in her rapidly expanding international profile. Over the past four years, she has distinguished herself among Nigerian artistes making waves on the global scene. In 2022, Tems became the first African woman to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart when her collaboration ‘Wait For U’ with Future and Drake reached number one. She also performed at the closing ceremony of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar that same year.

The Chief Executive Officer of Obama Foundation, Valerie Jarrett, described the opening as a once-in-a-generation celebration of democracy and culture. “This Grand Opening ceremony will be unlike any other, filled with music, performances and hope,” Jarrett said during the announcement. Former First Lady Michelle Obama noted that establishing the centre on Chicago’s South Side represents a full circle moment for her community, transforming previously underutilised land into a hub for history and leadership. The centre will open to members of the public from Wednesday, 19 June with further activities scheduled through Juneteenth weekend.

Since her breakout success internationally, Tems has won a Grammy Award and received an Oscar nomination for her contribution to ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ soundtrack. She was also listed among Time magazine’s 100 most influential people globally. Her selection for this event alongside legends who have shaped popular music further solidifies her position as one of Africa’s most influential cultural exports.

As Nigerians continue to gain recognition on world stages across entertainment and other sectors, Tems’ performance at such a symbolic event underscores both her talent and Nigeria’s growing impact on global pop culture.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/tems-obama-presidential-center-opening-performers-2026061714253434250

Former APC National Chairman dismisses allegations of manipulated signatures linked to Senate decision on Kogi lawmaker

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has refuted claims that signatures of his colleagues were forged in the controversy surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District. The incident, which has generated heated debate within the Senate, occurred in Abuja on Wednesday.

The matter unfolded after reports circulated alleging that some senators’ signatures were falsified to push through a resolution suspending Akpoti-Uduaghan. The Senate was thrown into debate over the authenticity of the process, with concerns raised about due procedure and transparency. Oshiomhole, a former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisted there was no forgery involved and called for calm among lawmakers and the public.

The suspension saga has drawn attention due to its implications for legislative conduct and internal democracy within Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber. Many Nigerians have expressed concern about possible manipulation within the National Assembly, especially given recent tensions between ruling and opposition parties.

Oshiomhole said at a press briefing that all signatures appended to the Senate’s decision were authentic and properly obtained. He maintained that “no senator’s signature was forged or used without consent,” urging critics to verify facts before spreading unsubstantiated allegations. As at press time, no official statement had been released by Akpoti-Uduaghan or her aides regarding Oshiomhole’s position.

The Senate is expected to further review its internal procedures in light of this controversy. Political observers say the outcome may shape future disciplinary processes for lawmakers accused of misconduct, as well as public trust in legislative proceedings.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/888438-oshiomhole-denies-that-senators-signatures-were-forged-in-natashas-suspension-saga.html