FRCN @ 75: FG reaffirms commitment to public broadcasting reforms
By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to modernising public media and ensuring that Nigerians remain well-informed, as the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) marks its 75th anniversary.
Speaking on Wednesday at the unveiling of the anniversary logo at Radio House in Abuja, the Minister said the Tinubu administration is investing in infrastructure to strengthen public broadcasting across the country.
He revealed that the installation of new 50-kilowatt medium-wave transmitters in Kaduna, Ibadan, Enugu, and Gwagwalada would significantly expand FRCN’s reach and reinforce its presence in Nigeria’s radio landscape.
“This is a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to modernising public media,” Idris said.
Beyond infrastructure, the Minister noted that reforms in the information sector are focused on promoting openness, accountability, and citizen engagement. He emphasized that a vibrant media and an informed populace are essential to sustaining democracy.
“A strong media and an engaged citizenry are the twin pillars of any thriving democracy,” he said, adding that FRCN must continue to amplify citizens’ voices and promote constructive national dialogue.
Idris described FRCN as a vital national institution that has played a unifying role over the decades.
“For three-quarters of a century, FRCN has done more than broadcast—it has uplifted the people and united the nation,” he added.
He also commended the management and staff of the organisation for their dedication, noting that the newly unveiled anniversary logo symbolizes both the legacy of trust built over 75 years and a forward-looking vision for the future.
In his remarks, the Director-General of FRCN, Mohammed Bulama, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its continued support and investment in the corporation.
Bulama described the anniversary as both a celebration of FRCN’s legacy and a renewed commitment to innovation, professionalism, and public service broadcasting. He assured that the organisation would continue to adapt to evolving technologies while fulfilling its mandate to inform, educate, and unite Nigerians.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babagana Kingibe; Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace; Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority, Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos; Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Charles Ebuebu; National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Alhassan Yahya Abdul; and National President of the Radio Television Theatre and Arts Workers Union, Emeka Kalu, among others.