Reps call for more funding for NTA, FRCN

The House of Representatives through its Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Value has canvassed for more funding for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN).

The lawmakers also lamented the dearth of facilities and transmitting equipments at the regional headquarter of the Federal Government owned stations located in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

The Chairman of the committee, Hon Segun Dokun Odebunmi who led other members to the federal government owned stations which include NTA, FRCN and Amuludun FM maintained that there is need for proper funding of these stations for effective operation.

While expressing his displeasure, Odebunmi noted that there was nothing on ground to show that these stations are ready for the digital switch over which is the current trend in the broadcasting industry in the world.

“ At FRCN, the building has been in place since 1961, no serious renovation on it, the same with NTA, old structures with obsolete equipments. We need to do something urgently to rescue the situation  and I want to use this medium to appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Information and Culture, Mr. Lai Mohammed to please release funds to these stations.

“ We don’t have to wait for the election period before we release funds to these stations to function, they should  be effective in the discharge of their roles of informing, enlightening and educating the general public at all time

”With the zeal and determination of the workers, I believe if they have the necessary equipments and other facilities in place they will operate effectively”, he said.

He, however assured that the Committee will influence more funds from the 2020 budget for FRCN and NTA as well as secure equipments from the available ones at the headquarters .

Odebunmi added,“ your role in  informing, educating and enlightening the public  about the development in the society cannot be underrated and the only way you can do this effectively is  when you work under conducive atmosphere with good facilities and just like I promised, wee will look into that and do something as soon as possible .

In his remarks, the NTA Zonal Director, Engr. Omolola Olorode who conducted the Committee round the station said lack of sufficient funding was  the major challenge facing the organization.

Also, the Director of Finance and Account,  Mr Michael Oluwole who represented the  Director General FRCN Ibadan, Alhaji Muhammadu Bello lauded the  Committee for their visit, urging  them to assist the corporation on increase funding and provision of basic facilities.