Nigeria Flags Off Landmark Restoration of VON’s TX2 Shortwave Transmitter in Abuja.
By Raymond Enoch
In a decisive move to reclaim Nigeria’s influential voice on the global airwaves, the Federal Government has officially flagged off the restoration of the Voice of Nigeria’s (VON) powerhouse shortwave transmitter, TX2, at the transmitting station in Lugbe, Abuja.
The high-capacity 250-kilowatt transmitter, regarded as the continent’s most powerful, is set for a comprehensive overhaul to modernize and digitize Nigeria’s international broadcasting infrastructure. This critical upgrade is expected to significantly expand Nigeria’s reach across Africa, Europe, and beyond, reinforcing the country’s position as a global media player.
At the ceremony, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris represented by the PermanentSecretary,
Mr. Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam , hailed the restoration as “a pivotal chapter in the history of the Voice of Nigeria.” He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision in championing the modernization of the country’s broadcasting capabilities, emphasizing the role of VON in shaping positive narratives and countering misinformation internationally.
Permanent Secretary Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam, further speaking on behalf of the Hon Minister, described the project as transformational, capable of repositioning VON as a “respected global brand in radio broadcasting.” He urged contractors to ensure timely and quality execution while calling on the VON technical team to demonstrate diligence throughout the refurbishment process.
Highlighting the uniqueness of Nigeria’s broadcasting infrastructure, the Director-General of VON, Engineer Jibrin Baba Ndace, disclosed that the rotating antenna, a rare asset in Africa, is now undergoing full restoration. “Nigeria stands alone with this technology on the continent,” he declared, underscoring the national pride in reviving this terrestrial broadcast capability.
The DG assured Nigerians that the revamped transmitter will serve the public interest, enabling VON to broadcast in eight languages—with plans to introduce more—to effectively tell authentic Nigerian stories amid the era of misinformation.
The contractor’s representative also emphasized the unparalleled advantages of shortwave technology, which allows for a wide range of targeted programming, solidifying Nigeria’s leadership in African media infrastructure.
This restoration marks a historic milestone in Nigeria’s media sector, bringing terrestrial broadcasting back to life with state-of-the-art equipment, and signaling the country’s commitment to fostering accurate communication on the world stage.
