Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s broadcasting industry into a catalyst for economic growth and democratic stability during the 3rd Annual National Conference of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB) in Bauchi State. Speaking through Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) Jibrin Baba Ndace, Idris highlighted infrastructure upgrades under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, including completed television studios at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) headquarters in Abuja and technical revamps across FRCN, VON, and NAN. The government also announced plans for a Ministerial Category II International Media and Information Literacy Institution in Abuja to train media practitioners in analyzing AI-generated content and promoting digital literacy.
Idris emphasized the need for broadcasters to uphold accuracy and professionalism, warning against amplifying unverified social media claims that could incite hate or religious provocation. He underscored the importance of balancing media independence with responsibility, stating, “Accuracy, fairness, and respect for the public interest must remain at the center of broadcasting.” The minister also noted the restoration of VON’s 250-kilowatt shortwave transmitters at the Muda station in Jos, Africa’s only surviving digital-compatible antenna, as part of broader efforts to expand terrestrial, satellite, and application-based broadcasting systems to boost the industry’s economic impact.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, represented by Deputy Mohammed Auwal Jatau, praised the SNB for hosting the conference and reiterated the government’s support for a free, responsible media. He highlighted his administration’s ₦3 billion investment in modernizing state-owned radio and television stations, including digital broadcasting facilities. The governor urged SNB members to conduct the upcoming election of a new Executive Council with professionalism and transparency, stressing that a robust media is essential for national development and social cohesion.
The conference, themed “Responsible Broadcasting in An Election Year: Countering Misinformation, Promoting Peace and Strengthening Democracy,” also featured discussions on mitigating AI-driven disinformation. Idris and other stakeholders called for stricter adherence to ethical standards in journalism to safeguard democratic processes. The event concluded with a focus on collaboration between regulators, broadcasters, and the government to ensure the Nigerian public remains informed and engaged ahead of the 2027 elections.
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