column, Dnewsinfo: Television remains one of the most influential inventions of the 20th century. It revolutionized how people receive news, education and entertainment
This article explores the historical development of television globally and highlights Nigeria’s trailblazing journey as the first African country to launch a TV station.
Global Development of Television
Television’s roots date back to the late 1800s, with early mechanical systems like the Nipkow disk. However, a major breakthrough came in 1927 when Philo Farnsworth transmitted the first electronic television image in the United States.
By the 1930s, public broadcasting had started in the UK and US, with the BBC and NBC leading the way. The 1950s brought color television, and the subsequent decades saw the rise of satellite and cable TV, making content available across continents. In the 2000s, the world transitioned from analog to digital TV, followed by the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube.
Television in Nigeria
Nigeria made history on October 31, 1959, with the launch of Western Nigeria Television (WNTV) in Ibadan. Spearheaded by the Western Regional Government, WNTV was not only the first television station in Nigeria but also the first in Africa.
Other regions followed:
• Eastern Nigeria Television (ENTV) – 1960
• Radio-Television Kaduna (RKTV) – 1962
In 1977, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) was established to merge and manage national broadcasts. NTA became the primary source of news and cultural programming for decades.
The landscape changed in 1992 with the deregulation of broadcasting, allowing private TV stations like AIT, Galaxy TV, and Silverbird to emerge. Satellite providers such as DSTV expanded the options for viewers.
In 2016, Nigeria began its digital switchover, transitioning from analog to digital terrestrial broadcasting—a move aimed at improving quality and access.
Conclusion
From its origins as a mechanical curiosity to today’s digital platforms, television has come a long way. Nigeria not only embraced this medium early but also led the way in Africa. As the world continues to shift toward streaming and smart TV technology, television remains a vital tool for communication and cultural expression.
By Students of The Polytechnic Ile-Ife | April 16, 2025.
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