DAAR Communications Plc, owners of Africa Independent Television (AIT), has denied reports claiming that it has shut down its Lagos operations.
In a statement on Friday, the company described the reports circulating on social media and some online platforms as “very untrue,” insisting that AIT’s Lagos office remains open and fully operational.
Collins Uwaeze, Marketing Executive at DAAR Communications, said the company is only undergoing a restructuring process aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery, not closing down any of its offices.
“The report of AIT Lagos closure is very untrue,” Uwaeze said. “What we have is a realignment aimed at making the company more efficient. We are rightsizing to ensure optimal operations, but the jobs of our staff are still intact.”
He assured employees and viewers that the management is working to strengthen the organisation’s structure and sustain its long-standing reputation in the Nigerian broadcast industry.
Rumours of the alleged closure began spreading earlier in the week, with some reports suggesting that financial difficulties had forced DAAR Communications to shut down its Lagos bureau. The company, however, firmly denied these claims, describing them as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among staff and stakeholders.
Founded in 1996 by the late High Chief Raymond Dokpesi, DAAR Communications is one of Nigeria’s leading media houses. The group operates Africa Independent Television (AIT), RayPower FM, and Faaji FM.
AIT, in particular, holds a significant place in Nigeria’s broadcast history as one of the country’s first private television stations, breaking the monopoly once held by government-owned broadcasters. Over the years, it has built a wide audience across Nigeria and abroad through its mix of news, entertainment, and current affairs programming.
DAAR Communications has faced several business and regulatory challenges in recent years, including stiff competition from newer digital platforms. However, the company says it remains committed to maintaining its role as a major player in Nigeria’s media landscape.
With the latest clarification, the management is urging the public to disregard rumours of AIT Lagos’ closure and continue to support its programmes as usual.
