A bill to regulate the practice of the broadcasting profession in Nigeria has passed the second reading in the House of Representatives.
Titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Regulation and Conduct of the Practice of Broadcasting Profession in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB.1150)” it is sponsored by Hon. Olaifa Jimoh Aremu.
The purpose of the Bill is to establish a regulatory authority to regulate broadcasting in Nigeria, set required academic qualifications and ethical standards for broadcasters, broadcast journalists or broadcasting practitioners.
The Bill proposes that there shall be established a body to be known as the Broadcasting Practitioners Council (BPC), which shall comprise of broadcasting practitioners of the highest distinction in the broadcasting profession in Nigeria.
It proposes that a person shall be qualified to practise as a broadcaster or be identified as a broadcaster only if such person has acquired or attained the prescribed academic or standard of training set by the Council and such person has been so certified and registered to practice as a broadcaster by the Council.
It also states one can also be qualified if prior to the commencement of the Act, such person has acquired requisite practical knowledge, training or experience in a recognised academic institution or broadcasting station or organisation which shall entitle the Council upon verification to certify him or her as a broadcaster and register him to continue to practise as such.
It proposed that the Council shall determine the level of qualification, skill or experience acceptable or applicable before granting the certification.
