The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, BON, has called on the Federal and State Governments to come to the aid of broadcast stations across the country that are grappling with high operating costs, warning that many stations can no longer cope with the burden of staying on air.

The organisation raised the alarm that the harsh economic environment has forced some radio and television stations to shut down completely, while others have been compelled to drastically cut their transmission hours in order to remain in business.

The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the 82nd General Assembly of BON, which was held from October 7 to 8, 2025 in Calabar, the Cross River State capital.

The communiqué, which was signed by the Executive Secretary of BON, Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, highlighted the major challenges confronting the broadcast industry and made far-reaching recommendations to governments and relevant stakeholders.

According to the document, BON identified the high cost of diesel, unreliable public power supply and the burden of multiple taxation as the most pressing problems threatening the survival of broadcast stations in Nigeria.

The organisation noted that most stations now spend huge sums of money on diesel to power their generators for several hours daily due to the epileptic power supply from the national grid, a situation that has become unsustainable.

It explained that the cost of diesel has risen astronomically in recent months, while electricity supply has remained unstable, forcing stations to rely almost entirely on alternative sources of power to keep their operations running.

BON also decried the imposition of multiple taxes and levies by different tiers of government and their agencies, saying the practice has further increased the cost of doing business for broadcasters.

The umbrella body of broadcast stations in Nigeria therefore urged both federal and state governments to urgently intervene by providing support to private broadcast stations, especially in the area of alternative power supply.

It specifically called on government to assist stations with access to renewable and alternative energy sources, including solar energy systems, to reduce their dependence on diesel and cut down operating expenses.

BON argued that such support would not only help stations stay afloat but would also enable them to continue to discharge their constitutional duties of informing, educating and entertaining the public effectively.

Beyond the issue of operating costs, the organisation also addressed the political landscape, calling on broadcast stations to ensure accurate, balanced and professional coverage of electioneering campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It emphasised the need for broadcasters to uphold the ethics of journalism by avoiding sensationalism, misinformation and biased reporting that could overheat the polity and undermine the democratic process.

BON further urged radio and television stations across the country to organise and host debates for political aspirants and candidates, to provide a platform for voters to assess their programmes and make informed choices.

According to the organisation, such debates would deepen democracy, promote issue-based campaigns and allow the electorate to interrogate the manifestos of those seeking elective positions.

In another resolution, BON called for a thorough investigation into the recent fatal plane crash involving the Nigerian Air Force, which claimed the lives of gallant officers.

The organisation said an in-depth probe into the incident had become imperative to determine the immediate and remote causes of the crash and to put measures in place to prevent a recurrence.

BON expressed condolences to the Nigerian Air Force, families of the deceased officers and the Federal Government over the tragic incident, describing it as a painful loss to the nation.

Meanwhile, the organisation commended the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, for the developmental projects being executed across the state since assuming office.

It particularly lauded the governor for his plans to revive the Tinapa Business Resort and the Obudu Mountain Resort, which it noted are key tourist attractions capable of boosting the state’s economy and creating jobs.

The General Assembly, which brought together heads of broadcast stations and media stakeholders from across the country, was described as successful, with participants reaffirming their commitment to professional broadcasting and national development.