FG Suspends Broadcast Licence Fee Reviews

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has announced the suspension of all reviews of broadcast licence fees until further notice, as part of measures to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s broadcasting industry.

Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, said in a statement on Monday that Idris announced the decision during a courtesy visit by a delegation of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), led by its Chairman, Senior High Chief Dr Tony Akiotu, on Monday in Abuja, following the organisation’s 82nd General Assembly.

Responding to concerns raised by BON over the rising cost of operating broadcast stations, the Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a more conducive environment for the growth and sustainability of the broadcasting industry.

“Any increase in licence fees is hereby put on hold. All reviews relating to licences are suspended until further notice. I am directing the NBC to ensure strict compliance while we review the situation,” he said.

The Minister also directed the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to expedite the review of the National Broadcasting Code to ensure that the regulatory framework remains responsive to developments and emerging realities in the broadcasting industry.

On the Digital Switch-Over (DSO), Idris promised a stakeholders’ meeting to address any outstanding issues.

Addressing BON’s request for the enforcement of the 45-day payment period for advertising services, Idris disclosed that he had already directed the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) to ensure full implementation of the policy.

He further assured the delegation that the Ministry would engage relevant stakeholders on access to affordable financing and spectrum allocation concerns.

The Minister emphasised the critical role of broadcasting in strengthening democracy, promoting national cohesion and ensuring that citizens have access to credible and accurate information.

He urged broadcasters to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, fairness and ethical journalism, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

“Freedom of expression must go with responsibility. You cannot simply say anything and claim to be practising journalism. Journalism has standards, procedures and ethics. I urge broadcasters to ensure that what they report is factual, responsible and promotes national unity and peaceful coexistence,” the Minister said.

Earlier, BON Chairman, Senior High Chief Dr Tony Akiotu, commended the Minister for his intervention during the June 2026 DSO launch, noting that the stakeholders’ meeting he convened helped address concerns about ensuring a level playing field for operators.

Akiotu also highlighted several challenges confronting the industry, including the review of the National Broadcasting Code, broadcast licence fees, rising operational costs, access to financing, spectrum allocation and the implementation of the 45-day advertising payment period.

“BON believes in dialogue, consultation and mediation to prevent a breakdown of industrial harmony in the broadcasting industry. We are grateful for your personal intervention during the DSO launch and seek your continued support in addressing the challenges affecting our members,” Akiotu said.

The Minister congratulated BON on the successful hosting of its 82nd General Assembly in Calabar, Cross River State, and reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to sustained dialogue and collaboration with broadcasting stakeholders to strengthen the industry and promote its long-term development.

Chdi Ugwu is a correspondent with Independent Newspapers.

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