The Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB) has issued a strong warning against moves by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to restrict or shut down campus radio stations across Nigeria. The alarm was raised during the SNB's second national conference, a significant gathering held at the Coronation Hall within Kano State's Government House.
High-Level Gathering in Kano
The conference, held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, attracted a notable assembly of government officials and media industry leaders. The event saw representation from several state governments, underscoring its national importance.
Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the Director-General of Media for Kano State, represented the state governor. Also in attendance were Prof. Tar, the Borno State Commissioner for Information, representing his governor, and the Bauchi State Commissioner for Information, who stood in for the Bauchi State Governor. Ahmed Maiyaki, the Commissioner for Information and Culture from Kaduna State, was present as well.
A Dire Warning for Media Education
In his address to participants, the National President of the SNB, Prof. Umar Pate, expressed profound concern over the regulatory actions of the NBC. He described the Commission's efforts as a direct threat to the foundational training of future media professionals in the country.
Pate emphasized that campus radio stations are not merely broadcasting outlets but are critical practical training grounds for students enrolled in Mass Communication and related courses at universities and polytechnics. He argued that shutting them down would cripple the hands-on experience necessary to produce competent broadcasters.
The SNB President made a direct appeal to the Federal Government to step in and "rescue these institutions from the pressures of NBC." Furthermore, he urged the NBC to review and approve more broadcast licences for tertiary institutions, aligning its practices with the accreditation requirements set by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
Support and Solidarity from State Governments
The conference also served as a platform for pledges of support. The Chairman of the occasion, Malam Ahmed Muhammad, commended the SNB leadership and the Kano State Government for facilitating the important dialogue on building capacity for younger broadcasters.
Representatives from the governors of Borno and Bauchi States promised continued backing for the SNB's mission to strengthen journalism standards and ensure improved reportage nationwide. Delivering the Kano State Governor's message, Sanusi Bature reaffirmed the administration's media-friendly stance and commitment to partnering with the SNB, particularly to enhance quality news production and new media content development.
The event concluded with the induction of new members into the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, marking a step towards growing its influence and advocacy reach.
