NBC Gives Foreign Broadcasters 30 Days to Register

The National Broadcasting Commission on Friday gave foreign broadcasters who have offices in Nigeria and beam their signals into the country to register within 30 days.

The commission also advised Internet Protocol Television and others streaming online to register with the commission to avoid disconnection and prosecution.

The Director-General of the NBC, Balarabe Ilelah, stated these during the presentation of newly approved licences to 67 broadcast outfits.

The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), a week ago approved 67 broadcast licences, bringing the total number to 473.

Ilelah who congratulated the beneficiaries said it was a rare opportunity that many people would be willing to have, adding that it was an indication of Buhari’s democratic disposition.

He added, “Broadcasters should note that having a DTT or FM license does not warrant a broadcaster to stream online; they are two different licenses. I will also call on foreign broadcasters who have offices in Nigeria and beam their signals into the country to come forth for registration with the commission within 30 days.

“I must state that NBC is determined to collaborate with security agencies to clamp down on illegal broadcasters in the country. Today, the commission presents provisional approvals to you. I implore you to complement the gesture by promoting our democratic values, national unity and cultural heritage.

“You are also required to reciprocate the gesture by putting the license into use within timeframe provided and act responsibly and in accordance with the Act, Code and other extant laws guiding broadcasting in Nigeria.”

He also asked them to aim for 100 per cent Nigerian content, while calling on Internet Protocol Television, one of the beneficiaries, and other broadcast stations that are streaming online to register with the commission to avoid disconnection and prosecution.

He also advised licensees that were yet to pay their outstanding debts to pay or have their licences revoked for illegal broadcasting.

“Refusal to pay NBC fee is an economic sabotage and the commission will have no option than to collaborate with security and anti-corruption agencies to redeem the debts,” he added.