Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc, owners of African Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower Radio, Raymond Dokpesi Jr., has formally declared his intention to contest for the Chairmanship of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), pledging wide-ranging reforms aimed at strengthening and modernising Nigeria’s broadcasting industry.
Speaking at DAAR Communications’ headquarters in Abuja, Dokpesi Jr. described the broadcasting sector as standing at a “critical crossroads,” grappling with economic pressures, digital disruption and regulatory constraints. He stressed that unity among broadcasters was essential for the sustainability and growth of the industry.
He underscored the importance of BON’s principle of rotational leadership, noting that it guarantees inclusivity and fair representation for public, private, cable, satellite and emerging broadcasters.
“Rotation gives all operators, regardless of size, a sense of belonging and a stake in the industry’s future,” he said.
On regulation, Dokpesi Jr. advocated a balanced framework that safeguards national security and public interest without undermining press freedom. He called for a review of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Act, describing it as largely rooted in Nigeria’s military era.
He argued that regulation should shift from excessive sanctions to incentives, collaboration and self-regulation to encourage professionalism and higher industry standards.
Warning that the economics of broadcasting in Nigeria has become increasingly unsustainable, Dokpesi Jr. urged government intervention and innovative funding models to support broadcasters. He proposed attracting new investments, accelerating digitisation and fostering innovation to secure the long-term viability of the sector.
Dokpesi Jr. outlined five pillars of his BON agenda: protecting national information sovereignty, promoting ethical content, enhancing inclusivity and accessibility, driving innovation through technology, and ensuring sustainable industry growth.
He cited reforms implemented at DAAR Communications as proof that industry-wide transformation is achievable through strategic leadership and collaboration.
Calling on broadcasters to embrace unity and forward-looking engagement with government, Dokpesi Jr. said the future of Nigerian broadcasting depends on collective action and bold reforms.
By Michael Olugbode
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