The Federal Government has suspended all reviews of broadcast licence fees indefinitely, a move announced by Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris on Monday in Abuja. The decision follows concerns raised by broadcasters over rising operational costs and the financial pressures facing Nigeria’s media sector.
Idris made the announcement during a courtesy visit by a delegation of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), led by its Chairman, Senior High Chief Dr Tony Akiotu. The delegation had recently concluded BON’s 82nd General Assembly in Calabar, Cross River State, where members highlighted the sustainability of broadcast operations amid mounting economic challenges.
In a statement issued by the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris said the suspension was part of efforts to create a more conducive operating environment for broadcasters. “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 a review of the National Broadcasting Code so that its provisions reflect current developments and emerging realities in the industry. He promised to convene a stakeholders’ meeting to address outstanding concerns on the Digital Switch‑Over programme and to resolve challenges affecting its implementation.
“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.
BON Chairman Akiotu praised Idris for his intervention during the June 2026 DSO launch, noting that the minister’s meeting helped address concerns about a level playing field for operators. He identified the review of the National Broadcasting Code, licence fees, rising operational costs, access to financing, spectrum allocation and enforcement of the 45‑day advertising payment period as major challenges requiring government attention.
Idris congratulated BON on the successful hosting of its 82nd General Assembly in Calabar and reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to sustained dialogue and collaboration with industry stakeholders to strengthen the broadcasting sector and promote its long‑term development.
<small>Source: Vanguard News — read the original story there.</small>
