The National Broadcasting Commission says it is preparing to introduce new broadcasting standards to respond to ethical concerns arising from digital platforms and emerging media technologies.
Director-General of the NBC, Dr Charles Ebuebu, disclosed this during an interview in Abuja.
Ebuebu said the commission had observed a decline in ethical standards across the broadcasting space, especially with the rapid expansion of online and digital platforms.
According to him, the changing media environment has created new regulatory challenges that require updated standards.
He said the NBC had engaged editors and other industry stakeholders on the need to review existing rules and strengthen professional conduct in broadcasting.
Ebuebu explained that stakeholders agreed that new standards were necessary to address current realities in the industry.
He added that the proposed standards would be integrated into the Digital Switch Over recently launched by the Federal Government.
The NBC boss said the DSO provides an opportunity to introduce updated rules that reflect the realities of modern broadcasting.
He noted that digital platforms and online spaces had changed the way content is produced, distributed and consumed.
According to him, many traditional broadcasting ethics are being ignored because of the speed and reach of digital media.
Ebuebu said the commission had often been misunderstood in its efforts to enforce the broadcasting code.
He stressed that the existing broadcast code remains in force and must be obeyed by all licensed operators.
The NBC director-general warned that repeated violations would attract sanctions, although he said the commission follows a process before taking enforcement action.
He explained that erring broadcasters are usually issued warning letters and invited for discussions before stronger sanctions are considered.
According to him, only operators who continue to violate the rules after such engagements will face further regulatory action.
Ebuebu said the NBC was redefining broadcasting standards because digital platforms had transformed the industry.
He said the commission must protect ethical broadcasting while also adapting to technological change.
The NBC boss disclosed that the commission was reviewing broadcasting standards, services, operational models and the broadcast code.
He said stakeholders had been asked to submit position papers to guide the review process.
Ebuebu explained that the commission initially gave stakeholders until December to submit their inputs, but many continued sending submissions until April.
He noted that the broadcasting sector was no longer limited to traditional radio and television stations.
According to him, the industry now includes IPTV, internet streaming, podcasts and other digital broadcasting services.
He said many operators now combine radio, television and online streaming, making it necessary to update the regulatory framework.
Ebuebu added that the commission would soon convene another stakeholders’ meeting to deliberate on the proposed regulations.
After the consultations, the NBC will produce a new broadcast code and forward it to the Minister of Information and National Orientation for approval.
The commission said the new rules are expected to strengthen ethical standards, improve regulatory clarity and support responsible broadcasting in Nigeria’s evolving digital media space.
