WNTV: The First Television Station to Come Out of Africa South of the Sahara, Spearheaded by Chief Obafemi Awolowo 

By Adeke Chuckwuka

In the chronicles of Nigeria’s media history, a significant milestone was reached with the establishment of the country’s first indigenous television station. This monumental development marked a turning point in the nation’s media landscape and cultural identity.

This first indigenous television station in Nigeria could be traced back to the pre-independence era. While the Federal Government initiated the first indigenous radio broadcasting in the country, the regional government took the lead in television broadcasting. This started with the Western Regional House of Assembly who empowered Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s government to establish WNTV, the first television station with the call signal “WNTV, First in Africa.”

In October 1959, the Western Nigeria Television (WNTV) was launched in Ibadan, the capital of the then Western Region. Spearheaded by the regional government under the leadership of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. WNTV became a pioneering force that reshaped the way Nigerians consumed information and entertainment. This launch of WNTV was a significant event in the development of mass communication in Nigeria, as it stands as the first television station to come out of Africa, south of the Sahara.

WNTV not only marked the birth of television broadcasting in Nigeria but also played a pivotal role in the preservation and promotion of the nation’s cultural heritage. The station showcased a diverse range of programming, including traditional music, dance, and drama, thereby giving local artists and talents a platform to shine. At first, the station showed black and white broadcasts, featuring a blend of local and international content such as news, sports, dramas, documentaries, and musical shows.

One of the station’s notable contributions was the educational content it provided to viewers. WNTV’s programs were not only entertaining but also informative, addressing various aspects of life including health, agriculture, and social issues. This approach helped bridge the gap between urban and rural communities, spreading knowledge and awareness across the region.

Furthermore, WNTV encouraged the use of local languages in broadcasting, which fostered a sense of belonging among the people. The station aired programs in both Yoruba and English languages, representing the linguistic variety found in Nigeria’s Western Region. WNTV became a unifying force, as Nigerians from different ethnic backgrounds could now tune in and hear news and stories in their own languages.

The success of WNTV paved the way for the establishment of other indigenous television stations across the country like the Eastern Nigeria Television (ENTV) in 1960 and the Radio and Television Kaduna (RKTV) in 1962, contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s media industry. These stations continued the legacy of promoting cultural diversity, education, and social awareness.

In conclusion, the birth of the first indigenous television station in Nigeria, WNTV, marked a transformative moment in the nation’s history. By bringing local content, culture, and information to the forefront, WNTV not only enriched the lives of Nigerians but also laid the foundation for the vibrant media landscape that now exists in the country.