Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has declared the Federal Government’s commitment to implementing transformative reforms aimed at reviving the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN).
During his visit to Kaduna on Friday, where he toured the two media establishments, the Minister acknowledged the vital roles of Radio Nigeria Kaduna and NTA Kaduna in shaping public opinion, disseminating news, and fostering cultural exchange.
However, he emphasized that both institutions have suffered from neglect, poor work attitudes, and outdated infrastructure and equipment over the years.
Idris underscored the significance of NTA and FRCN in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, assuring that the President is committed to revitalizing these establishments and positioning them as pioneers in Nigeria’s broadcasting sector.
“To properly situate the NTA and FRCN as positive agents within the federal government agenda, we must recognize their current underwhelming performance in an ever-competitive, creative, and technology-driven operating environment,” the minister stated. He expressed the urgency of addressing these challenges, emphasizing the government’s determination to explore all available options to restore the lost glory of NTA and FRCN.
The Minister highlighted the critical situation of FRCN at national and state levels, especially at Radio Nigeria Kaduna, which he described as a once prestigious bastion of information.
“Indeed, Radio Nigeria Kaduna needs urgent resuscitation. We will act with urgency on this rescue mission,” he declared.
Idris maintained that the appointments of Malam Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos and Dr Mohammed Bulama as Directors General of NTA and FRCN, respectively, were strategic steps to address the declining fortunes of these broadcasting giants.
He expressed his readiness to explore opportunities to equip NTA and FRCN with modern technology, ensure staff are well-trained, and prioritize their welfare.
The Minister emphasized the need for both media organizations to align with cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency and reach a wider audience.
During the visit, he inspected the major operational facilities of the two stations, including their transmission stations in the Isa Kaita area of Kaduna and Jaji along the Kaduna-Zaria Expressway.
Writing by Oluwaseyi Ajibade
Radio Nigeria