Social Media is a ‘Monster’ Says NBC as Bill to Regulate it Passes First Reading in National Assembly

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has successfully passed the first reading of a bill aimed at regulating social media within the national assembly. The bill, which was sponsored by the NBC, seeks to repeal and reenact the NBC Act CAP L11 laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

This pivotal announcement was made by the Director-General of the NBC, Mr. Balarabe Ilelah, during a meeting held at the commission’s headquarters with the Minister of Information, Mr. Mohammed Idris.

Mr. Ilelah expressed his concern regarding the current legal framework, which does not grant the NBC the authority to regulate social media. He characterized the negative aspects of social media as a “monster” that requires immediate attention.

In his statement, Mr. Ilelah explained, “We want to tell you that a bill for an act to repeal and amend the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) act, CAP L11 laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, to accommodate the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting service, also to promote quality audio and video, efficient management of the spectrum, Nigeria Broadcast Institute, social media regulation, and related matters has been read for the first time on the floor of the national assembly.”

The NBC Director-General emphasized the importance of addressing issues related to social media, stating, “All these that are mentioned are not captured in the present act of the commission. We have already submitted a bill to amend the act. One of our major problems now is social media. Unless there is a law that allows NBC to act on social media issues, the issue will continue to be a monster in our daily lives in this country.”

This development marks a significant step toward potential regulation of social media platforms in Nigeria and is expected to spark debates and discussions on the role and responsibilities of regulatory bodies in the digital age.