At a recent conference in Kano State, Northern Nigeria, the President of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SBN), Prof. Pate, has called on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to reconsider its restrictions on licensing university-operated campus radio stations. He stressed that these restrictions are obstructing vital training and professional development in the broadcasting field.
The conference was themed “Broadcasting Ethics and Professionalism in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” Prof. Pate expressed concern that universities offering mass communication programs face frustrating delays in obtaining necessary licenses, despite meeting all requirements. He highlighted the importance of campus radio and television as practical training grounds for future broadcasters, emphasising that denying them licenses undermines their capabilities.
“We urge the NBC to recognise that universities should not be viewed as commercial entities; our facilities serve as essential training laboratories,” he stated.
Pate pointed out that, with over 1,000 broadcasting stations and numerous online media platforms in Nigeria, there is a critical need to focus on evidence-based reporting and public safety. He cautioned that the irresponsible spread of information in a sensitive society could pose serious threats, and abandoning professionalism could lead to harmful consequences.
“Technology is transforming the landscape. We must either embrace digitalisation or risk obsolescence. Investment in both equipment and intellectual development is crucial,” he asserted.
He also expressed appreciation for Governor Abba Yusuf’s hosting of the conference and his commitment to media development within Kano State. Pate mentioned that the SBN is dedicated to enhancing broadcasters’ skills, confidence, and ethical understanding to advance the nation.
Governor Yusuf, represented by his spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa, reiterated the government’s support for journalism and educational institutions focusing on media training. He noted that Kano has made significant strides in upgrading its infrastructure, revitalising training centres, and sponsoring students to study specialised programs abroad.
Yusuf described Kano as “an emerging academic hub of Northern Nigeria,” thanks to the growing educational opportunities available there. He also shared that the state has completed its memorandum for submission to the Senate Committee on Information concerning the review of the NBC Act.
Earlier in the event, the Chairman, Alhaji Ahmed Aminu, discussed the evolution of Nigerian broadcasting from the 1950s to the present digital age. He cautioned against the dangers of misinformation associated with artificial intelligence, highlighting that careless AI-generated content could exacerbate social tensions.
