The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a notice to broadcast stations across Nigeria,cautioning of stricter enforcement of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code following violations of ethics and professional breaches, particularly in , current affairs, and political programming.
In a statement issued by the commission on Friday,it noted that it had observed a disturbing trend where broadcast platforms are increasingly being used in ways that undermine their core responsibility of informing the public with accurate, balanced, and ethically produced reports.
The commission further added that the trend, if not addressed, could erode public trust in the media and create chaos as the country gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections.
The NBC stressed that it would enforce “strict and uncompromised compliance” with the provisions of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
It also highlighted rules relating to fairness, accuracy, balance, hate speech, and respect for constitutional authorities, warning that infractions in these areas would attract sanctions.
“As we approach the 2027 General Elections, the Commission, hereby, notifies all broadcasters and stakeholders that it will enforce strict and uncompromised compliance with every provision of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, particularly, those relating to fairness, balance, accuracy, hate speech, incitement and respect for constitutional bodies,” the commission said.
A major concern raised by the commission is what it termed a “crisis” in the professionalism of programme anchors and presenters.
According to the NBC, there has been a disturbing concern over departure from laid down journalistic standards, including instances where presenters put their personal opinions into programmes, fail to give equitable representation to opposing views, or allow discussions to move in favour of particular interests.
Such practices, according to the commission, violate the provisions of the broadcasting code that require neutrality and fairness in the handling of issues of public interest.
The commission also speaks against the ongoing misuse of broadcast platforms by political actors. It said politicians from different party lines are increasingly exploiting radio and television programmes to spread messages that may be inflammatory, divisive, or capable of inciting public disorder.
The NBC referenced several provisions of the code that criminalize content capable of encouraging crime, undermining national unity, or disrespecting human dignity.
The commission further noted that hate speech, inciting rhetoric, and narratives that could promote political and communal divisions are being spread by the media. It cautioned against adding that it violates not only broadcasting standards but also poses a great threat to Nigeria’s stability, especially in a politically sensitive period.
The commission noted that some broadcasters now allow personal opinions to be presented as facts, in clear violation of established guidelines.
It cited provisions of the code which prohibit presenters from injecting personal views into programmes and mandate that all sides of issues of public interest must be equitably represented, preferably within the same broadcast.
The NBC further emphasised that broadcasters bear ultimate responsibility for content transmitted on their platforms, regardless of the source.
It urged media organisations to strengthen internal editorial controls and ensure that all programmes, especially those dealing with politics, elections, and public policy, are handled with the highest level of professionalism and sensitivity.
“Broadcast platforms must not be used for hate speech, personal attacks, or content inciting disorder along political lines. The Code places a non-transferable obligation on broadcasters to exercise editorial judgment at all times, including during Live programming,” the commission stated.
As part of its renewed enforcement posture, the commission warned that any anchor or presenter found to have expressed personal opinions as fact, intimidated guests, denied fair hearing to opposing views, or otherwise compromised neutrality would be deemed to have committed a Class B breach under the code.
Reiterating its directive, the NBC placed all broadcasters on formal notice to ensure strict adherence to the code in all news and political programming. It stressed that compliance is mandatory and not subject to discretion, adding that stations must guarantee fairness, balance, accuracy and the right of reply in their content.
NBC Responsibility.Under its establishing law, the National Broadcasting Commission is mandated to regulate and control broadcasting in Nigeria. Its responsibilities include issuing and renewing broadcast licences, monitoring content to ensure compliance with the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, and enforcing sanctions where breaches occur.
The commission is also tasked with promoting professionalism, fairness and balance in broadcasting, while ensuring that content does not undermine national security, public order or the unity of the country.
It serves as the primary regulator responsible for setting standards for radio and television operations, as well as safeguarding the public’s right to receive accurate and responsible information.
In carrying out these duties, the NBC monitors stations, investigates complaints, and applies penalties ranging from fines to suspension or revocation of licences, depending on the severity of violations.
SERAP Calls For Withdrawal.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately withdraw a recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission, describing it as unlawful and a threat to press freedom.
In a letter dated April 18, 2026, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation called on the President to instruct the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, and the NBC to reverse the notice.
“The NBC’s notice represents a dangerous attempt to impose prior censorship on the media and suppress legitimate journalistic expression.”SERAP said
The group also asked the government to “abstain from imposing prior censorship on broadcast stations and Nigerian journalists, including presenters and to allow them to freely carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
SERAP further argued that such provisions are vague and unconstitutional, stressing that, “The Nigerian Constitution and international human rights law protect both the absolute right to hold opinions and the qualified right to express them.
The organisation further criticised Section 1.10.3 of the Broadcasting Code, noting, “This amounts to prior restraint that impermissibly excludes commentary, analysis, and value judgments, the core of journalism and democratic discourse.
“SERAP maintained that the NBC’s reliance on broad and unclear provisions risks arbitrary enforcement and could stifle critical reporting, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.“The threat of sanctions for broadly defined conduct creates a chilling effect on journalists and broadcasters, thereby undermining constitutional guarantees,” the group said.
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 48 hours. If we have not heard from your government and the NBC by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel compliance,” it added
SERAP also urged the NBC to amend sections of the Broadcasting Code to align with constitutional and international human rights standards.
