The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to transforming the country's broadcasting industry into a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and democratic stability. This was stated by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, at the 3rd Annual National Conference of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB) in Bauchi State. The conference, themed "Responsible Broadcasting in An Election Year: Countering Misinformation, Promoting Peace and Strengthening Democracy," brought together stakeholders to discuss the role of broadcasting in Nigeria's democratic process.
Minister Idris, represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba Ndace, highlighted the government's efforts to upgrade broadcasting infrastructure, including the completion of modern television studios at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) headquarters in Abuja. Additionally, technical revamps are underway at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Voice of Nigeria (VON), and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). These upgrades aim to enhance the quality and reach of broadcasting services in Nigeria.
To combat artificial intelligence-driven misinformation ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle, the government is establishing a Ministerial Category II International Media and Information Literacy Institution in Abuja. This institution will train media practitioners and citizens in digital content analysis, media literacy, and managing the opportunities and risks of AI-generated content. Furthermore, the government is restoring VON's 250-kilowatt shortwave transmitters at the historic Muda transmitter station in Jos, which houses the only surviving digital-compatible antenna of its kind in Africa.
The government is also expanding terrestrial, satellite, and application-based delivery systems to stimulate growth across the advertising, creative, and broadcasting value chains. Minister Idris emphasized the importance of responsible broadcasting, urging practitioners to resist broadcasting unverified social media claims and to prioritize accuracy, fairness, professional integrity, and respect for the public interest. He warned that broadcasters must not become sources of incitement, hate speech, or religious provocation.
Governor Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir of Bauchi State, represented by his Deputy, Mohammed Auwal Jatau, commended the SNB for hosting the conference in the state. The Governor noted that broadcasting plays a unique and powerful role in society, connecting communities, preserving culture, and promoting the public good. He urged practitioners to maintain a clear distinction between facts, analysis, commentary, and opinion, and emphasized the importance of a free, responsible, and professional media in informing citizens and promoting accountability.
Governor Mohammed revealed that his administration has committed over ₦3 billion to a comprehensive overhaul and modernisation of state-owned radio and television stations, installing state-of-the-art digital broadcasting facilities. He also announced that the conference would feature the election of a new Executive Council for the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, urging members to approach the election with professionalism, fairness, transparency, and unity.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation commended the organisers and regulatory bodies, including the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), for driving capacity building and ensuring the Nigerian public remains well-informed and actively engaged in the nation's democratic process. The conference brought together stakeholders to discuss the role of broadcasting in Nigeria's democratic process and the need for responsible broadcasting practices.
Key points
- The Nigerian government is committed to transforming the broadcasting industry into a vital driver of economic growth, job creation, and democratic stability.
- The government is establishing a Ministerial Category II International Media and Information Literacy Institution to train media practitioners and citizens in digital content analysis and media literacy.
- The government has committed to upgrading broadcasting infrastructure, including the completion of modern television studios and technical revamps at various broadcasting stations.
