FG Suspends Broadcast Licence Fee Increases, Orders Review Of NBC Code

The Federal Government has suspended all reviews of broadcast licence fees indefinitely, offering relief to television and radio stations facing mounting operational costs and financial pressures.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the decision on Monday in Abuja during a meeting with the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), led by its Chairman, Dr Tony Akiotu.

Idris directed the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to ensure strict compliance with the suspension, stressing that no increase in broadcast licence fees would be implemented until further notice.

The minister also ordered an expedited review of the National Broadcasting Code to bring it in line with emerging realities in the broadcasting industry.

He assured operators that the government would convene a stakeholders’ meeting to address outstanding concerns surrounding the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) programme.

The minister further pledged government engagement on affordable financing options and spectrum allocation to improve the operating environment for broadcast organisations.

On advertising payments, Idris disclosed that he had directed the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) to enforce the 45-day payment policy, aimed at addressing delays in payments to media organisations.

While acknowledging the industry’s financial and regulatory challenges, the minister urged broadcasters to maintain professionalism, factual reporting and ethical standards, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

Earlier, BON Chairman, Akiotu, appealed to the Federal Government to intervene in the challenges confronting broadcast operators, including rising operational expenses, licence fees, limited access to financing and other regulatory constraints.

He commended the minister for previous interventions on the Digital Switch-Over programme and reiterated the association’s preference for dialogue in resolving issues affecting the industry.

The Federal Government said it remained committed to sustained engagement with industry stakeholders to strengthen the broadcasting sector and address concerns affecting its growth.