By Gabriel Ameh
Lagos, Nigeria — April 28, 2026
The International Press Centre (IPC) has raised concerns over a recent directive issued by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), warning that it could restrict broadcasters’ ability to provide analysis and informed commentary.
The directive, dated April 17, reportedly cited breaches of the NBC Code in news, current affairs, and political programming. It also placed broadcasters on notice of stricter enforcement, including possible sanctions.
IPC expressed worry that the move may signal a renewed attempt to limit the constitutional role of the media in promoting accountability and supporting democratic participation in Nigeria.
Concerns Over NBC Code Provisions
The organisation highlighted Section 1.10.3 of the NBC Code, which prohibits presenters and anchors from expressing personal opinions on air. While the provision is intended to ensure neutrality, IPC argued that it may restrict legitimate journalistic analysis and context-driven reporting.
IPC further noted that several other sections of the Code are broadly worded and open to interpretation. According to the organisation, this creates a risk of misuse that could limit investigative reporting, public debate, and critical engagement, while encouraging self-censorship among media professionals.
Freedom of Expression at Risk
IPC emphasised that freedom of expression is a fundamental right protected under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, as well as international frameworks such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The organisation warned that excessive regulatory control could undermine editorial independence, silence dissenting voices, and weaken the overall information environment.
Call for Balance and Professional Standards
While acknowledging the need for regulation to curb misinformation and hate speech, IPC maintained that such measures must not come at the expense of press freedom.
The organisation also referenced its Nigeria Media Code of Election Coverage, which promotes ethical journalism while safeguarding freedom of expression.
IPC cautioned that sanctioning journalists solely for clearly identified opinions could violate their rights as professionals and individuals.
Implications for Democracy
In a statement, IPC Executive Director, Lanre Arogundade, stressed the importance of journalism in democratic societies.
“Journalists play a critical role in informing citizens, scrutinising power, and enabling the public to make informed democratic choices,” he said.
He warned that limiting opinion and analysis in political broadcasting could reduce the quality of public discourse, increase misinformation, and heighten electoral tensions.
IPC’s Recommendations
IPC called on the NBC to:
1.Review and amend vague provisions in the Code
2.Ensure enforcement does not suppress legitimate journalism
3.Protect editorial independence and analytical reporting
4.Strengthen safeguards for journalists, especially during elections
5.Uphold the rights and safety of media professionals
6.The organisation concluded that while regulation is necessary, it must not be used as a tool to control or silence the media.
