Broadcasting
NBC Bars Licensees from Acquiring Exclusive Foreign Sporting Rights
National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has said that the no broadcaster or licensee shall license or acquire foreign sporting rights in such a manner as to exclude persons, broadcasters or licensees in Nigeria from sub-licensing the same.
This is expected to ultimately break the monopoly of any dominant operator in the broadcasting space.
Prof. Armstrong Idachaba, acting director general, NBC, at a press briefing in Abuja, said that the, decision to amend of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code (6th edition) was taken reposition Nigerian the broadcasting industry and to make it more responsive to emerging realities in the broadcasting industry.
Idachaba, said that part of the objectives of the amendments were to protect and promote the local broadcast industry from monopolistic and anti/ competitive behavior; the stimulation of advertising revenue into the Broadcast industry and by extension the local creative industry.
According to him, these objectives remain key and central to the development of broadcasting in Nigeria and the reform of the Broadcasting industry.
Idachaba, while acknowledging the mixed reactions to the release of the amendment, stated that the Commission would take them into consideration for the growth and development of the broadcast Industry in Nigeria.
The DG, who decried the challenges confronting local broadcasters in the country vowed to protect their interest through the implementation of the new code. ‘
he said that ‘Only recently on the 27th of March, 2020, I announced the release of some amendments into the Nigeria Broadcasting Code (6th Edition).
‘‘As stated then, part of the objectives of the amendments are the protection and promotion of the local broadcast industry from monopolistic and anti/ competitive behavior; the stimulation of advertising revenue into the Broadcast industry and by extension the local creative industry.
‘‘These objectives remain key and central to the development of broadcasting in Nigeria and the reform of the Broadcasting industry.
“And we must commend those who have intellectualized and enriched the discourse with incisive and decent arguments both for and against.
‘‘The Commission wishes to reiterate the fact that the objectives of the amendments are in our National Best interest.
‘‘We currently have a highly rated and hugely talented creative industry in Nigeria but the facts remain that content producers are unable to harness the benefits of their creative endowment due largely to monopolistic restrictions and anti-competitive behaviour.
‘‘There is no doubt that the Nigeria Broadcasting industry is facing a series of challenges. These include inability for the broadcasters to generate required funds from advertising and programming.
‘Local Producers of content are no longer able to create contents for Television. This has led to an influx of foreign production companies some of them unregistered and unlicensed by the Nigerian Government.
‘‘These companies have taken over the local content production space and by extension the advertising and broadcasting space, relegating the local entrepreneurs to oblivion. ‘‘The Commission believes in DFI in the Broadcasting industry but this must be done with the noble philosophy to promote our own national dreams and vision.’’
He argued that the amendments to the Code does not in any way prevent investments, if anything it simply says carry the Nigerian broadcaster along, insisting that if properly executed, these provisions will make rapid benefits for those who invest in Nigeria and the benefit of Nigerian media entrepreneurs and audiences.
‘‘We know of a truth that Broadcasting is dynamic, so are the challenges to regulation. ‘‘The Commission has noted all the concerns and observations, especially on 9.0.1 and 6.2.8. Section 6.2.8 clearly point that, “Exclusivity shall not be allowed for sporting rights in the Nigerian territory and in furtherance thereof, no broadcaster or licensee shall license or acquire foreign sporting rights in such a manner as to exclude persons, broadcasters or licensees in Nigeria from sub-licensing the same.”
‘‘Similarly, on 9.0.1, the point is that -a Broadcaster or licensee shall immediately after the coming into force of this Amendment be prohibited from effecting informal agreements, written and oral agreements, explicit or implicit understandings or implementing concerted practices either exclusively or between market players that have as their object, intent, effect or purpose the restriction of competition, abuse of a dominant position or of substantial market power or create barriers to entry in the broadcast media industry in Nigeria,’’ he added.
MultiChoice Nigeria, today announced the highly anticipated return of Africa’s biggest reality television show, Big Brother Naija, for its landmark 10th season. Set to premiere over two nights on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27, 2025, the new season promises 10 weeks of captivating drama, strategic gameplay, and unparalleled entertainment, culminating in the grand finale on Sunday, October 5, 2025.
The audition process for this milestone season was meticulously designed to unearth the most engaging and dynamic personalities from across Nigeria. Audition registrations were held from May 3rd to May 7th, 2025, and saw an overwhelming response, followed by rigorous in-person auditions conducted in Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu from May 16th to May 18th, 2025.
Speaking on the upcoming season, Busola Tejumola, Executive Head, General Entertainment, MultiChoice Group, expressed her excitement: “Today we are not just announcing another season, we are celebrating a legacy.”
While the official theme for Season 10 will be unveiled on the premiere night, viewers can anticipate a fresh wave of excitement. The beloved Ebuka Obi-Uchendu is returning as host, guiding viewers through every twist and turn of the season. This 10th season also has the highest prize at stake – valued at a whopping N150million.
Fans can catch the premier live on July 26 and 27 exclusively on Africa Magic Showcase, Family and Showmax at 7 PM WAT. The Sunday live eviction shows will also air exclusively on these channels. The 24/7 live stream will be available on DStv Channel 198, GOtv Channel 49, and on Showmax.
“BBNaija has become more than just a television show; it is a living, breathing cultural force. It has given voice to a new generation of talent, creatives, entertainers, and the influencer community, and it has refined what homegrown entertainment can achieve when it is done at scale with intention and ambition,” added Tejumola.
With a two-night opening live show for Big Brother Naija Season 10, the season is poised to build upon the legacy of its predecessors, with fans expecting a more dynamic and entertaining experience. Still speaking on what the season holds Dr. Tejumola said “Today we are not just announcing another season, we are celebrating a legacy. From the very first time we introduced Big Brother Naija in 2017, we had an inkling that we had something special. What we couldn’t fully imagine then is how deeply the show would resonate not only in Nigeria but across Africa and in the global diaspora, where our stories continue to connect people to home.”
This milestone season for the iconic show is not without the usual lineup of sponsors. The gold sponsor for the 10th season of the show is Guinness Nigeria. Other sponsors include Smirnoff, Gordons, HFM, Pepsi, Aquafina, Supakomando, Tolaram Group, Bet King, Golden Penny Foods, Haier Thermocool, Checkers custard, and Innoson Motors, among others.
Viewers can catch all the live action and special broadcasts on DStv Channel 198, GOtv Channel 49, and Showmax. The live Sunday eviction shows will air exclusively on Africa Magic Showcase (DStv Channel 151, GOtv Channel 8), Africa Magic Family (DStv Channel 154, GOtv Channel 7) and on Showmax.
DStv and GOtv subscribers can also watch the show on the go using the DStv and GOtv Stream apps available on the Google Play Store and IOS App Store.
Geeks and Founders Alliance for Soludo (GEFAS), a tech-driven network of young professionals, is set to unveil its operational hub in Anambra State as part of efforts to deepen digital engagement and community outreach.
The launch, scheduled for July 17, 2025, will take place at 10 Uche Ekwunife Crescent, Iyiagu Estate, Awka, and is expected to serve as a nerve centre for collaboration, innovation and support for Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s smart city agenda.
Convener of GEFAS, Mr Fred Agbata, said the initiative reflects the group’s commitment to digital progress and grassroots mobilisation.
“This space reinforces our support for Governor Soludo’s vision of a smart, prosperous Anambra. It’s also a demonstration of what young innovators can achieve when united behind a bigger goal—the re-election of Governor Soludo,” he said.
Agbata added that the hub would provide a platform for tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs and creatives to co-create solutions that address local challenges and promote inclusive development.
GEFAS has called on stakeholders, youth groups and members of the public to attend the launch and engage with the opportunities the space will offer.
American Tower Corporation (ATC) Nigeria and the ProFuturo Foundation have announced a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the educational sector through digital innovation and technology.
The programme, which is being implemented in conjunction with the Kukah Centre, is expected to benefit over 5,600 school children and 34 teachers across 11 schools in Kano, Kebbi and Taraba states.
The initiative is part of a broader global collaboration between American Tower and ProFuturo Foundation, targeting education gaps in seven African and Latin American countries.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, ATC Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Mr Pieter Van Der Westhuizen, said the partnership was aligned with the company’s Digital Communities programme, which facilitates technology-driven learning, financial literacy for adults and access to healthcare services in underserved areas.
“At ATC Nigeria, we are proud to support this impactful collaboration, which brings digital tools directly into classrooms. This partnership is not just about equipment—it’s about giving children the future they deserve,” he said.
General Manager of ProFuturo Foundation, Ms Magdalena Brier, described the partnership as a crucial step towards bridging the digital divide and empowering vulnerable communities.
“This alliance reinforces our mission to transform lives by improving access to education and digital tools. Every child and teacher reached through this programme is a testament to what we can achieve together,” she said.
Each school will be equipped with a digital learning kit, which includes computers, tablets, routers, projectors and other essential components tailored to foster interactive learning—even in areas with limited connectivity.
The initiative seeks to strengthen innovative teaching practices and promote inclusive education through digital transformation, with active support from local authorities who were present at the official launch.
CAC Flags Three Companies, Warns Nigerians
NDPC Asks Court to Dismiss Meta’s Suit Challenging $32.8m Fine
FG to Launch Fully Digital Expatriate Residence Permit Application Portal August 1
France Moves to Tackle Online GBV in Africa with $4.3m Funding
AfDB to Introduce Systems Reforms to Prioritize Investing in Africa’s Youth
Telecom2 days agoNCC Introduces N10m Licence Fee for Bulk SMS Service
Telecom2 days agoMTN Nigeria Targets $1Bn Cloud Market with Largest Modular Data Centre
General News2 days agoWoodhall Capital and Partners Launch ₦1.5Bn Fund
E-Business2 days agoFirm Highlights Top Risks of Quantum Computing
E-Financial1 day agoZenith Banks Leads as 8 Banks Suffer N156Bn Impairment Charges
General News2 days agoBurna Boy Distances Himself from Meme Coin, Labels Crypto as Fraud
Telecom2 days agoPAT Taps Osi as CEO
E-Financial2 days agoAfrica Launches PAPSSCARD, First Pan-African Card Scheme