The Nigerian broadcasting industry is facing a potential crisis as the National Assembly’s proposed telecom tariff hike threatens to disrupt operations nationwide. According to the management of Inspiration FM 105.9, a leading radio station in Akwa Ibom State, this increase, coupled with persistent power outages and the high cost of diesel, could cripple broadcast stations and force many out of business.
Speaking during a thanksgiving service at Solid Rock Kingdom Church in Uyo, the General Manager of Inspiration FM, Rev. Silas Ufot, expressed grave concerns over the looming telecom tariff hike. He explained that the proposed increase would not only escalate operational costs but also reduce audience participation in radio programs. Ufot warned that such a development could spell disaster for the broadcasting industry, particularly for stations reliant on interactive programming and live streaming.
He highlighted the challenges already plaguing the sector, including soaring diesel prices, inflation, an unfriendly economic climate, and dwindling patronage. He noted that power outages have made production costs unbearable, further compounding the struggles of broadcasters nationwide.
“If telecom tariffs are increased, it will significantly reduce the number of callers on our phone-in programs. Audience participation will decline, and interactive sessions on our radio station will no longer be robust,” Ufot lamented.
He also pointed out the ripple effect of the tariff hike on live streaming services, stating, “Stations that rely on live streaming using data will suffer. Many subscribers may stop renewing their data plans, and this will impact digital broadcasting efforts severely.”
The General Manager called on the federal government to intervene, urging authorities to reconsider the proposed tariff increase and address the power crisis affecting the industry. He warned that many stations are already struggling to survive, with some shutting down operations entirely due to economic hardships.
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“Several broadcast stations in Ibadan and parts of Lagos have ceased operations. Others have licenses but cannot commence broadcasting because of power challenges,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Rev. Ufot expressed gratitude for Inspiration FM’s resilience over the past eight years. He thanked God for sustaining the station through harsh economic conditions, frequent power outages, and a hostile business climate.
During the thanksgiving service, the founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church, Apostle Dr. John Okoriko, delivered a sermon titled “The Heart of Gratitude.” He encouraged Inspiration FM to remain a voice for the voiceless and continue its mission as a family-centered radio station.
“Thanksgiving involves the heart, the hand, and the mind. Continue your good works, for you shall reap in due season,” Apostle Okoriko assured the radio station team.
