The Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) opposes the planned sale of broadcast frequency in the 600 MHz spectrum band by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), as it would endanger over 80% of TV viewers in Nigeria and leave Nigeria’s broadcast space susceptible to foreign media penetration. NCC announced its intent to sell the frequency slots through administrative assignment last month. Yemisi Bamgbose warned that it would harm many broadcast organizations in the country.
A report quoted Bamgbose as stating the 600 MHz spectrum allocated to broadcasting in the country is at risk with its sale, a claim supported by the Executive Secretary of BON, who rejected the sale proposed by the NCC. BON rejected the planned sale of broadcast spectrum by the NCC. They sent a letter to NBC’s director general, urging immediate action. BON’s Executive Secretary warned that the sale before the analogue switch-off would deny access to over 80% of Nigerians who rely on TV broadcasting for information and enlightenment.
BON wrote a letter dated April 25, 2023, titled “An Urgent Call to NBC”. They expressed concern about an NCC advertisement from March 23, 2023, regarding frequency slots in the 600 MHz spectrum band available for sale to the general public. The ad stated that interest submissions end on April 28, 2023. The BON urged NBC to legally halt spectrum band sales until after the ITU Digital Switchover and Federal Government White Paper requirements are met. NBC warned that if the primary spectrum allocated to broadcasting is sold, all TV stations on the 600 MHz frequency will be impacted, including DTT operators, private TV stations, state government-owned stations, and some NTA community and state stations. The 700–800 MHz frequency, which includes state-owned and private stations, has been sold to telecoms, causing unresolved problems. If NCC proceeds with the sale, it will allow unhindered foreign media penetration, with significant negative consequences for Nigeria’s broadcast space. BON has raised concerns about the proposed sale.
