MultiChoice Africa in Nigeria has launched Africa’s first commercial mobile broadcast TV service in the city of Abuja.
The launch places Nigeria at the forefront of the world digital television technology race, and has the support of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
Nigeria switched on its mobile television network today using the Digital Video Broadcast – Handheld (“DVB-H‘) technology standard. Consumers in Abuja will be able to receive a specially compiled bouquet of DStv channels, which includes SuperSport, CNN, Africa Magic and Big Brother Africa, live on their mobile phones. The Abuja roll-out will be followed by a similar roll-out in other Nigerian cities over the next couple of months.
Nigeria Chairman Adewunmi Ogunsanya says: “We are very excited that Nigeria becomes one of the first countries in the world to commercially roll out DVB-H services, something that will ensure Nigerians have early access to global innovations in the industry. Details Nigeria will distribute the service through several mobile operators in Nigeria and has already signed a distribution agreement with MTN Nigeria.’
DVB-H is widely considered to be the world’s leading mobile broadcast technology standard, and is also currently being trialled by MultiChoice Africa in Namibia and preparations are well advanced for a launch in Kenya
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