NBC warns broadcasters of strict enforcement ahead of 2027 elections
National Broadcasting Commission NBS
Abdullateef Fowewe
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a warning to broadcasters, vowing “strict and uncompromised compliance” with the Nigeria Broadcasting Code as the country approaches the 2027 General Elections.
In a statement highlighting a “sustained increase in breaches” across news, current affairs, and political programs, the NBC accused platforms of straying from their duty to “inform the public with accuracy, balance, and professionalism.”
The regulator identified two main issues: declining professionalism among anchors and the misuse of airwaves by political actors.
On anchor conduct, the NBC pointed to violations like Section 1.10.3, which states: “The Broadcaster shall ensure that its Presenter does not express his or her opinion in the programme, as a matter of professional standard.”
It also cited Sections 3.3.1(b) and 3.4.1(b), requiring “All sides to any issue of public interest are equitably presented for fairness and balance” and “All sides to an issue are equitably presented, preferably in the same broadcast.”
The statement flagged political actors’ use of broadcasts for inflammatory content, breaching rules against hate speech and incitement, including Section 3.1.1: “No broadcast shall encourage or incite to crime and lead to public disorder or hate be repugnant to any person or organisation alive or dead or generally be disrespectful to human dignity.”
Other violations include Sections 5.4.1(f) and 3.11.1(b), which prohibit “divisive materials or compromise the indivisibility and indissolubility of Nigeria as a sovereign state” and content subverting authority.
Henceforth, anchors expressing “personal opinion as fact,” bullying guests, or denying fair hearings face Class B breaches. Broadcasters bear “non-transferable” editorial responsibility, even in live shows.
“NBC places all Broadcasters on formal notice: Strict compliance with the Nigeria Broadcasting Code will be enforced,” the statement asserted, promising sanctions for inflammatory or unsubstantiated content.
It stressed that airwaves must foster “credible information, responsible discourse, and national cohesion,” ending with, “The National Broadcasting Commission will continue to guarantee Your Right to Quality Broadcasting.”
