Nigeria Restores Voice: FG Flags Off 250KW VON Transmission Upgrade.
By Raymond Enoch
In a bold step toward repositioning Nigeria on the global broadcasting map, the Federal Government has officially flagged off the restoration of Voice of Nigeria’s (VON) shortwave transmission using a cutting-edge 250KW TX2 transmitter — a landmark project aimed at reviving the country’s international radio reach.
At a symbolic ceremony held at the Voice of Nigeria Transmitting Station in Lugbe, Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam, who declared the event a turning point in Nigeria’s global broadcasting aspirations.
“This project marks a significant milestone in the history of Voice of Nigeria,” Dr. Nnam said on behalf of the Minister. “With the restoration of the largest and most powerful transmitting station on the African continent, we are taking a major step toward re-establishing Nigeria’s presence and credibility on the international stage.”
The Permanent Secretary praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his visionary leadership and commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s broadcasting infrastructure, stating that the upgraded VON facility will be equipped with digitally compatible technology that meets contemporary global standards.
Ahead of the formal flag-off, the Director General of Voice of Nigeria, Engr. Jibrin Baba Ndace, conducted Dr. Nnam and other senior directors and staff of the Ministry on a comprehensive tour of the transmitting station. During the tour, Engr. Ndace highlighted the strategic importance of the 250KW superpower transmitter and the technical upgrades being implemented to boost both the reach and quality of VON’s international broadcasts.
“This isn’t just a technical upgrade; it is a mission to restore Nigeria’s voice to the world,” Engr. Ndace said. “Through this transmitter, we are reviving our ability to communicate Nigeria’s and Africa’s positive stories directly and without interference.”
He assured that the VON technical team is fully prepared to supervise the project with diligence and professionalism, while also committing to an enduring culture of maintenance to ensure the sustainability of the infrastructure.
The Permanent Secretary, in her remarks, charged the contractor handling the project to meet all agreed timelines and uphold the highest standards of quality in delivery. She also emphasized the need for strong institutional oversight to ensure the long-term success of the investment.
Once completed, the restored transmitter will significantly enhance VON’s signal strength and broadcast footprint, enabling clearer, farther-reaching programming across Africa, Europe, and other parts of the world.
Dr. Nnam reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting Voice of Nigeria in fulfilling its mandate as a pro-Nigeria and pan-African broadcaster focused on telling authentic, positive stories about the nation and the continent.
“With today’s flag-off, we are not just restoring a transmitter — we are restoring a strategic national asset, a vital channel through which Nigeria’s voice resonates across the world,” she concluded.
The event marked the formal commencement of the restoration contract, ushering in a new era for Voice of Nigeria.
