The Federal Government has suspended all reviews and increases in broadcast licence fees indefinitely, following concerns by broadcasting organisations over rising operational costs and the financial pressures facing the industry.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, announced the decision on Monday during a meeting with a delegation of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), led by Senior High Chief Dr Tony Akiotu, its Chairman.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister.
Idris said the suspension was intended to ease the financial burden on broadcast operators and create a more supportive environment for the industry’s growth and sustainability. “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,” the minister said.
As part of efforts to address the industry’s concerns, Idris directed the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to accelerate the review of the National Broadcasting Code.
The minister said the review would ensure that the regulatory framework reflects emerging developments and changing realities in the broadcasting industry.
On the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) programme, he promised to convene a stakeholders’ meeting to resolve outstanding issues affecting its implementation.
The minister also addressed BON’s request for the enforcement of the 45-day payment period for advertising services, disclosing that he had directed the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) to ensure full implementation of the policy.
He added that the ministry would engage relevant stakeholders on other industry concerns, particularly access to affordable financing and spectrum allocation.
Idris emphasised the importance of broadcasting in strengthening democracy, promoting national unity and ensuring public access to credible information.
He urged media organisations to maintain high standards of professionalism, fairness and ethical journalism, especially as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Earlier, BON Chairman, Akiotu, highlighted the mounting challenges confronting broadcasting organisations, including rising operating expenses, licence fees, access to financing, spectrum allocation and the implementation of the National Broadcasting Code.
He also identified the need for effective enforcement of the 45-day advertising payment policy as a priority for the industry.
“BON believes in dialogue, consultation and mediation to prevent a breakdown of industrial harmony in the broadcasting industry,” Akiotu said.
He thanked the minister for his intervention during the launch of the Digital Switch-Over programme and appealed for continued government support in addressing the operational and regulatory difficulties confronting broadcasters.
