Revitalizing Eket NTA station: Reps call for digital operations after 17 years

The House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards reviving the dormant Channel 35 Station of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, which has been abandoned for approximately 17 years.

During Thursday’s plenary session, Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, representing Eket/ONNA/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency, presented a motion urging the House to facilitate the resuscitation and resumption of operations at the Eket NTA station. The House emphasized the importance of ensuring that the channel transitions to full digital operation by 2024.

Highlighting the potential economic benefits and job opportunities that would arise from the operation of the Eket television station, the House recognized its role in boosting regional development.

In his address to the House, Etteh expressed concern about the neglect of the Eket Television Station, which had been technically equipped for broadcasting with significant government investment. He stated, “Sadly, this investment, which carried out testing over 17 years ago, has been abandoned and allowed to be overrun with weeds, grass, and crawling animals.”

Etteh conveyed the appeals from the people of Akwa Ibom State, specifically the constituents of Eket/ONNA/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency, urging relevant institutions to ensure the full operationalization of the Eket Television Station for comprehensive news coverage and educational content.

The House, in response, mandated the committees on Appropriation and Information, National Orientation, and Values to ensure compliance and report back within four weeks for further legislative action. Additionally, the House called upon NTA to fulfill its mandate, providing excellent service globally and projecting the true African perspective.