The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s broadcasting industry into a vital driver for economic growth, job creation, and democratic stability.
The Minister spoke at the 3rd Annual National Conference of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB), held at the Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre in Bauchi State. The theme of this year’s conference was ‘Responsible Broadcasting in An Election Year: Countering Misinformation, Promoting Peace and Strengthening Democracy.’
Represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba Ndace, the Minister outlined landmark infrastructure upgrades under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
He also highlighted new initiatives aimed at combating artificial intelligence-driven misinformation ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
Minister Idris revealed that modern television studios have been completed at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) headquarters in Abuja. In addition, collaborative technical revamps are underway across the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Voice of Nigeria (VON), and the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Other key federal interventions include of the establishment of a Ministerial Category II International Media and Information Literacy Institution in Abuja, the centre will train media practitioners and citizens in digital content analysis, media literacy, and managing the opportunities and risks of AI-generated content.
Restoring VON’s 250-kilowatt shortwave transmitters at the historic Muda transmitter station in Jos. This facility houses the only surviving digital-compatible antenna of its kind in Africa. Building on previous digital switchover milestones, the government is expanding terrestrial, satellite, and application-based delivery systems to stimulate growth across the advertising, creative, and broadcasting value chains.
Minister Idris emphasised that while the media must robustly question government institutions, political parties, and candidates to protect its independence, practitioners must resist broadcasting unverified social media claims.
‘Broadcasters, as channels of democracy, must not become sources of incitement, hate speech, or religious provocation,’ Idris warned. ‘Accuracy, fairness, professional integrity, and respect for the public interest must remain at the center of broadcasting. Do your job thoroughly without drama, animosity, or condemnation.’
The Minister commended the organisers and regulatory bodies, including the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), for driving capacity building and ensuring the Nigerian public remains well-informed and actively engaged in the nation’s democratic process.
Also speaking at the event, Governor Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir of Bauchi State expressed his appreciation to the SNB for hosting the conference in the state.
Represented by his Deputy, Mohammed Auwal Jatau, Governor Mohammed noted that broadcasting occupies a unique and powerful position in society by connecting communities, preserving culture, and promoting the public good.
He urged practitioners to maintain a clear distinction between facts, analysis, commentary, and opinion.
‘As a government, we recognise the media as an indispensable pillar of democracy and a critical instrument for national development,’ the Governor stated.
‘A free, responsible, and professional media is essential to informing citizens, promoting accountability, strengthening social cohesion, and facilitating constructive dialogue.’
Governor Mohammed further revealed that his administration has committed over ?3 billion to a comprehensive overhaul and modernisation of state-owned radio and television stations, installing state-of-the-art digital broadcasting facilities.
The Governor noted that the conference would feature the election of a new Executive Council for the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters.
He urged members to approach the election in the true spirit of professionalism, fairness, transparency, and unity.