The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) is advocating for stronger protections for journalists, enhanced professional standards, and intentional policies to support broadcast media as the nation gears up for another general election. This appeal was made during the opening of BON’s 82nd General Assembly in Calabar, Cross River State, themed……
The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) is advocating for stronger protections for journalists, enhanced professional standards, and intentional policies to support broadcast media as the nation gears up for another general election.
This appeal was made during the opening of BON’s 82nd General Assembly in Calabar, Cross River State, themed “Broadcasting Media: Bedrock of Democratic and Economic Advancement in Nigeria.”
At the event, Vice Chairman Isah Yusuf, representing BON Chairman Sir Tony Akiotu, highlighted the alarming rise in arrests, intimidation, and detention of journalists, which he described as a serious threat to the media’s constitutional responsibilities.
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He called on all levels of government and security agencies to ensure that journalists can carry out their work without fear of harassment, while also warning against political intimidation, thuggery, and attacks on media outlets during the election season.
The BON leadership expressed concerns about the economic challenges facing radio and television stations, pointing to high energy costs, expensive broadcasting equipment, tariffs, and other operational hurdles.
They urged the government to implement supportive policies that would help sustain broadcast media, particularly for private stations operating within the states.
Regarding professional standards, BON emphasized the importance of accuracy, balance, and reliability in news and programming, reminding broadcasters that the race to break news should never compromise authenticity and the public’s interest.
The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) also called on broadcasters to ensure fair and balanced coverage of political events, providing equal access to all registered political parties and candidates.
Additionally, the Commission highlighted the increasing impact of artificial intelligence and manipulated audio-visual content, urging licensed broadcasters to remain trusted sources of credible information while responsibly embracing new technologies.
