The Association of Nigerian Broadcasters (ANBROAD) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting professionalism in Nigeria’s broadcasting industry, condemning the killing of ARISE News broadcaster, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who was fatally attacked by armed robbers in Abuja on Monday.
The association’s president, Abdulrasaq Abdulganeey, made this known on Tuesday in Ibadan during ANBROAD’s first national congress.
Reflecting on the association’s journey since its formal inception in 2024, Abdulganeey acknowledged the challenges encountered but expressed optimism about ANBROAD’s progress.
‘We want to sanitise our profession, to differentiate the wheat from the chaff. Our mantra is: together we can do it, move mountains and be the talk of the town,’ he said.
He also stressed the need for modernisation in the industry, stating that broadcasters must move away from outdated practices.
As part of this drive, the association has introduced a Unique Professional Number (UPN) system and launched an official website to help identify, connect, and support its members nationwide.
Abdulganeey called on key stakeholders to collaborate on improving the welfare of broadcasters and ensuring their contributions are adequately recognised and rewarded.
Encouraging more practitioners to join ANBROAD, he emphasised the association’s vision of building a stronger, more ethical broadcast industry that truly serves the public interest.
On the killing of Maduagwu, the ANBROAD president described the incident as a ‘heinous and unfortunate tragedy’ that claimed the life of a promising young broadcaster.
‘President Bola Tinubu and the police should do the needful. We do not want to keep losing broadcasters, journalists or any Nigerian. The government must protect the lives and properties of its citizens,’ Abdulganeey said, joining the growing public call for a thorough investigation and justice for the late broadcaster’s family.
Also speaking at the congress, ANBROAD’s national secretary-general, Sola Gbayisomore, highlighted the association’s achievements within just one year of operations.
He noted ANBROAD’s growing presence in states, including Lagos, Ondo, Kwara, Osun, Ogun, Oyo, and Abuja.
He said the congress served not only as a platform to celebrate progress but also to strategise for growth, strengthen member collaboration, and explore opportunities within the industry.
During the congress, ANBROAD established operational zones across its active states and formally inaugurated zonal leaders.
In addition, the association unveiled its constitution, presented by the chairman of the board of trustees, Sulaiman Adegbenro, who stressed the importance of truth and trust in the broadcast profession.
‘The constitution is a compass for our association. It’s essential for guiding our operations and ensuring we remain true to our values,’ Adegbenro said, urging members to abide by it and contribute to the development of both the association and the national broadcast sector.