Admin 
Mohammed Idris
The Federal Government has announced an indefinite suspension of all proposed reviews and increases in broadcast licence fees to cushion operational hardships facing media organizations in the country.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, revealed the policy directive on Monday, November 9, 2026, in Abuja during a courtesy visit by executive members of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), led by its Chairman, Dr. Tony Akiotu, following BON’s 82nd General Assembly.
Addressing the rising operational costs threatening media sustainability, the Minister ordered the regulatory authority to freeze fee hikes with immediate effect.
“Any increase in licence fees is hereby put on hold. All reviews relating to licences are suspended until further notice. I am directing the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to ensure strict compliance while we review the situation,” Idris stated.
Beyond the fee freeze, the Minister directed the Director-General of the NBC to accelerate the ongoing review of the National Broadcasting Code, ensuring the regulatory framework aligns with modern technological and industry realities.
Responding to long-standing complaints regarding delayed payment cycles in the advertising sector, Idris revealed he has mandated the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) to strictly enforce the 45-day maximum payment policy for advertising services.
He also pledged to convene a comprehensive stakeholders’ session on the Digital Switch-Over (DSO) program and engage relevant authorities to address spectrum allocation bottlenecks and enable access to affordable financing for broadcasters.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to press freedom, Idris reminded media executives of their pivotal role in safeguarding national stability, particularly as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
“Freedom of expression must go with responsibility. You cannot simply say anything and claim to be practising journalism. Journalism has standards, procedures and ethics,” the Minister remarked, urging broadcasters to prioritize factual, balanced, and conflict-sensitive reporting.
Earlier, BON Chairman Dr. Tony Akiotu expressed appreciation to the Minister for his proactive interventions, including resolving key disputes during the June 2026 DSO rollout and reiterated BON’s commitment to dialogue and collaboration to ensure stability across the industry. (NAN)
