iv.
Ensure availability and cost effectiveness of set top boxes;
v.
Encourage and facilitate local manufacturing of set top boxes; and
vi.
Develop a licensing regime for signal distributors.
7.7
Community Broadcasting
Community broadcasting has been acknowledged as a critical tool for promoting
universal access and the Rights to Freedom of Expression. Community broadcasting
typically augments the services of the National Broadcasting System by attending to
needs that cannot be adequately addressed at Federal, State and Local levels by
public and commercial broadcast operators. Community-based broadcasting stations
will contribute towards bringing the nation’s ethnic communities and special interest
groups into focus. It will also empower them with access to, and the ability to send
and share information.
7.7.1
Situation Analysis
Community broadcasting in Nigeria has been minimal and yet it is acknowledged
that community broadcasting can play a useful role in national development by
targeting specific groups and/or communities. Efforts should therefore be made to
promote a robust community broadcasting culture, including IP-based retransmission
of broadcast signals.
7.7.2
Objectives
i.
To implement full community broadcasting in Nigeria;
ii.
To facilitate widespread access to broadcasting; and
iii.
To ensure appropriate content that educates, enlightens and empowers
Nigerians.
7.7.3
Strategies
The Government will:
i.
Create an enabling framework and environment that will further the
advancement of community broadcasting sector in Nigeria; and
ii.
Amend the relevant sections of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of
Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) to permit the issuance of broadcasting licenses,
including community radio by the Converged Regulator.
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