Broadcasting
Trends in Local Content Broadcasting
Broadcasting in Nigeria has come a long way, observing changing trends and adapting to various innovations. And in all those times, it has been the duty of broadcasters to bring substantial local content into their productions, and that of the regulator to monitor what is being fed to the public.
One may pause to think – what does ‘Nigerian content’ necessarily entail in reference to broadcasting? It may be conveniently perceived as programmes which have Nigerian themes or are Nigeria-centric, showcasing the ways of life of the people living within the geo-political zone known as Nigeria. These programmes could come in the form of news, music, movies and soaps, documentary and shows, among others.
Radio and TV broadcast stations today have incorporated a whole lot of Nigerian content into their daily programming, putting paid to criticisms from certain quarters of the public for frequently airing foreign programmes, especially by TV stations. That is a welcome development which has been made possible by the efforts of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), to get broadcasters to transmit more local programmes that reflect the Nigerian culture and add value to the audience.
Early this year, NBC issued a new regulation on Family Belt programming which read: “Pursuant to section 2(1)(H)(I)(U) and 20(1) of the National Broadcasting Commission Act no 38 of 1992 (as amended), the National Broadcasting Commission hereby directs that from the second quarter of 2009, commencing April 1st, all terrestrial television stations operating in the country are to air only Nigerian Local Content during Family Belt hours, between 7 – 10 pm, as provided in Paragraph 3.13 of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code.”
According to NBC, unless there is a strong editorial justification, programmes and advertisements during the family belt shall be devoid of sex or overt sexual behaviour; nudity; violence (verbal or physical); bloodletting; smoking; alcohol; drug abuse; denigration of womanhood; offensive, lewd and vulgar language, expression and presentation; exorcism, occult practices and the paranormal (which purport to be real).
In expressing its commitment to the cause, NBC has clearly spelt out the penalties for breaking the rules around Nigerian local content. First violation of the code attracts a fine in the sum of N500,000, payable within 14 days of notice; second violation, in addition to a fine of N1,000,000, leads to a forfeiture of one hour on Family Belt during which the station shall scroll the Commission’s prescribed message only. Further breach necessitates a reduction of daily broadcast hours of the station and may lead to the suspension of license.
These rules and sanctions as stringent as they may seem, are made in a bid to promote local content in broadcast programming, as Nigerian local content would not only make for easy learning and appreciation by local viewers and listeners but also boost the nation’s identity and broadcast independence.
However, it is now up to producers of broadcast contents to step up their game and create programmes that meet international standards in terms of quality of story line, video and sound. Viewers, as well as broadcast station operators have often decried the quality of made in Nigeria programmes; and that may be responsible for the preference for foreign programmes, which they (operators) believe the viewing public enjoy more.
Be that as it may, it is imperative that Nigerian local content be included in the programming of all broadcast stations as a way of showcasing the rich cultural diversity and talents that abound in the country. It would be a very sad thing to turn on the television or radio all day and not find any Nigerian programme on air.
Broadcasting
Big Brother Naija Season 10 to Premiere July 26 with Record ₦150m Grand Prize

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.
Broadcasting
GEFAS to Launch Innovation Hub in Anambra, Backs Soludo’s Digital Vision

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.
Broadcasting
Over 5,600 Pupils to Benefit as ATC, ProFuturo Partner on Tech-Driven Learning

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.
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