SES has announced a new Elevate training programme together with Cable Channels Nigeria Ltd. (CCNL). The training will run for four days and will see over 50 installers being trained with hands-on knowledge of installing a satellite dish.

CCNL, a company licensed by the Nigeria National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), is the certified content aggregator and platform owner for the free-to-air DTT and DTH platforms in Nigeria. CCNL is playing a key role in the Nigeria Digital Switchover (DSO) process by getting channels onto the land-based DTT network and onto satellite as DTH, both offered under the brand FreeTV.

In May of this year, SES and CCNL signed a multi-year agreement to provide a strategic and reliable video platform, via SES's prime orbital position 28.2 degrees East, for the provision of Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) and Direct to Home (DTH) broadcast platforms in Nigeria. The pilot phase signaling the beginning of the DSO commenced with the switchover in Jos.

In addition to providing capacity and managed end-to-end services, SES - with its Elevate installer training programme - will now help ensure that CCNL's customers receive the best service for the installation of their satellite reception equipment.

"This partnership with SES will help bring digital switchover nearer to completion, which is a clear benefit to the Nigerian consumer," said Rajiv Mekkat, CEO, CCNL.

"With the pilot phase of the switchover to digital terrestrial broadcasting in Nigeria well underway, the roll-out of digital satellite services is another example of DSO creating jobs and opportunities for Nigerians.

"The Elevate programme provides consumers with the means to have satellite equipment professionally installed by accredited installers, creating more skilled jobs in Nigeria."

SES Vice President Marketing, Paul Freeman, expressed excitement at the partnership with CCNL and added that the goal is to bring satellite TV services closer and at their best to more Nigerians.

He further remarked, "The Elevate training programme was borne out of a need to complement the satellite and digital television roll-out on the African continent with quality installations.

"It also serves to empower and benefit local business growth across the digital broadcasting environment through skills development. In addition to the training sessions, installers are provided with specialised tools, free training material and downloadable manuals."