By mercy peter
The Federal Government on Tuesday flagged off the restoration of the Voice of Nigeria’s (VON) shortwave transmission, a project officials say will reposition the nation’s international broadcasting capability and restore the station’s pride of place on the African continent.
The project, which involves the rehabilitation of VON’s 250KW TX2 transmitter at the Lugbe transmitting station in Abuja, was formally launched by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
He was represented at the event by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam.
Describing the initiative as a “significant milestone in the history of VON,” Idris said the station is set for a revival with “the most modern, digitally compatible technology” to strengthen Nigeria’s global broadcasting reach.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he called the President’s “vision and commitment” to modernising the country’s broadcasting infrastructure.
“Upon completion of this project, the fully reactivated VON transmitters will transform the landscape of terrestrial broadcasting and position VON as a respected brand in global radio broadcasting for good,” Idris said.
The Minister urged the contractor to execute the work within the agreed timeframe and to adhere strictly to international standards. He also charged VON’s technical team to ensure diligent supervision of the project.
Beyond the technical restoration, Idris underscored the role of VON as a national and continental voice, urging the broadcaster to remain pro-Nigeria and pan-African in outlook. “VON must continue to tell the positive stories of Nigeria and Africa to the world,” he noted.
The restoration of the transmitter is expected to expand VON’s shortwave coverage, strengthen Nigeria’s international image, and modernise the country’s broadcasting capacity in line with global trends.
