Type | Private broadcast network |
---|---|
Country | Nigeria |
Availability | Nationwide |
Founded | 27 March 1997 by Sir Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion |
Motto | Certainly the Best |
TV stations | Independent Television |
TV transmitters |
|
Radio stations | Independent Radio |
Radio transmitters | 92.3 FM |
Headquarters | Benin City, Nigeria |
Regions | Okada, Edo State, Benin City |
Owner | Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion |
Parent | IBW Enterprises |
Launch date | 27 March 1997 |
Affiliation(s) | CNN, NBC |
Official website | www |
Independent Television/Radio is a Nigerian private broadcast network that began transmitting on 27 March 1997.[1] It was founded by Sir Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom.[2][3][4]
Independent Television (ITV) received its broadcasting license on 26 June 1993, making it the first privately owned broadcasting station in Nigeria under the parent organization IBW Enterprises.[5][6] Full transmission began on 27 March 1997.[7][2][8]
In 1998, Independent Radio was launched on 92.3 Mega Hertz FM as a complementary platform to ITV.[4][9] The radio station was inaugurated by the Oba of Benin, Omo 'N' Oba Nedo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Erediawa, on 7 November 1998.[10][11]
Independent Television/Radio received approval from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to transmit on Channel 42 UHF in the Federal Capital Territory.[12] ITV Abuja commenced transmission on 1 September 2007.[4][13] The network contributed content to international platforms such as Cable News Network (CNN).[14][15]
In December 2009, Independent Television/Radio obtained a license for digital satellite broadcasting, allowing global broadcasting of its programs.[16]