NIGERIA BROADCASTING CODE (6TH EDITION, 2016)

A Code governs the content, operations, and conduct of broadcasting licensees in Nigeria by setting standards for programming and advertising. It targets television, radio, and online broadcasters, as well as advertisers and content producers. This promotes high-quality, balanced, and socially responsible broadcasting.

What Is This Policy?

The comprehensive regulatory code governing the content, conduct, and operations of all broadcasting licensees in Nigeria, setting standards for content quality, advertising, political broadcasting, and broadcasters obligations.

Who Does It Target?

Television and radio broadcasters (free-to-air and subscription) Online and digital broadcasters regulated by NBC Advertisers and content producers NBC enforcement officers

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Ensure high-quality, balanced, and socially responsible broadcasting in Nigeria; protect audiences from harmful content; promote local content; and regulate advertising and political broadcasting.

Key Features

Local Content Quota: Requires broadcasters to air a minimum percentage of locally produced content, supporting the Nigerian creative industry. Content Standards: Prohibits obscene, defamatory, hate speech, and inciteful content; classifies content by audience suitability (watershed rules). Advertising Standards: Regulates advertising content, placement, duration, and standards for truthfulness and decency. Political Broadcasting: Prescribes fairness and equal access requirements for political broadcasts during election periods.

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active - NBC enforces through monitoring and sanctions Coverage: All licensed broadcasters in Nigeria Beneficiaries: Nigerian audiences; local content industry Funding: NBC operational budget; broadcaster licence fees

How to Access

Broadcasters must obtain an NBC licence before commencing operations Content must comply with the Code at all times Advertising must comply with NBC and APCON advertising standards Application method: Broadcasting licence applications to the National Broadcasting Commission at https://www.nbc.gov.ng

Important Terms

Sanctions for Code violations range from fines to suspension and revocation of licence Watershed rules restrict adult content to after 10 pm NBC may issue immediate suspension orders for egregious violations

Official Resources

Website: https://www.nbc.gov.ng Contact: National Broadcasting Commission (NBC)

Legal Framework

The Nigerian Broadcasting Code (6th Edition, 2016) is issued by the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission under the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission Act. It operates alongside the National Film and Video Censors Board Act 1993, the Copyright Act 2022, and the Consumer Protection Council Act. The Code aligns with the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) Act 2022 and international content standards from the International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC/UNESCO) guidelines.