Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON)

BON GENERAL ASSEMBLIES

1st General Assembly of BON
The first General Assembly was held on August 11, 1988 in Abuja, the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) played host. The Chairman was Late Allhaji Dahiru Modibbo, the then Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN).

The main objective of this occasion was the full resuscitation of BON. It studied the recommendations by a Committee on the resuscitation and approved the initial framework on which BON would operate which included the objectives, membership, representation, chairmanship and the general structure of the organization. Thereafter, Engr. Shyngle Wigwe, former Director-General, NTA was nominated the first Chairman of the resuscitated BOON from August 1988 to August 1990.

The Assembly also considered and approved the need for the Society of Nigeria Broadcasting (SNB) to be resuscitated. The Assembly resolved that the three organizations connected with the broadcast industry, namely Television Organizations of Nigeria (TON), State Owned Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (SOBON) and Chief Executives of Federal and State Owned Radio Organizations (CEFASERO) should wind-up.

2nd General Assembly of BON
This was held on the 16th of February, 1989 at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos. The Assembly decided on a general levy of One Thousand Naira (N1,000.00) on each member station for the running of the initial activities of BON pending the report by an appointed Committee for the financial contributions by member organizations.

3rd General Assembly of BON
This took place on 8th July, 1989 at Commerce House, Victoria Island, Lagos. The Nigerian Television Authority played host to it. The appointment of an Executive Secretary was effected.
The Chairman stated that the broadcasting industry seemed to have lost the battle for the collection of Radio and TV licence fees. He was however optimistic that the envisaged commercialization and privatization policy of the Federal Government might rekindle the issue, and that on the long run, the industry might benefit from it.
The Assembly accepted the programmes mapped out for the celebration of the 30th anniversary of television industry in Nigeria.

4th General Assembly of BON
The Nigeria Television Authority host to this on 28th December, 1989 at the Commerce House, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The Assembly received the report which the Director-General FRCN and NTA had written to the Federal Government to provide funds for the payment of Weighing-Allowance to their staff. This followed the ruling by the Industrial Arbitration Court that special allowances of 17.5% of salaries, be paid to operational staff and 10% to other categories of staff.
In its effort to exercise fair coverage of the political activities, the Assembly advised members to study Decree No. 27 on political Party broadcasts, and organize workshop for various categories of their officers for the proper understanding of the decree being essential to the success of this objective. It was also advised, in the interest of equity, that members’ stations should set up screening committees to appraise programmes with violet undertones before showing such programmes.
To ensure equity and fair play, the Assembly also made a plea to the Federal Government that salary of the Chief Executives of State Owned electronic Media be harmonized with those of their federal counterparts.

5th General Assembly of BON
This was held on 21st and 22nd March, 1990 in Maiduguri, Borno State. The host was Borno Radio Television Corporation. The main achievement of this assembly was ensuring acceptable commercial rates for all electronic media. It set the initial minimum rate of the N100.00 per minute for the radio and N257.00 for the television. The effective date for these charges was 1st July, 1990.

6th General Assembly of BON
Held on 6th and 7th August 1990 at Giginya Hotel, Sokoto. Rima Radio, Sokoto, played host.
The Assembly was addressed by the Secretary General of the Radio Television and Theatre and Allied Workers Union (RATTAWU) and the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ). While RATTUWA recommended that staff of the electronic media be detached from the universal salary structure, the NUJ proposed a unified salaries structure for journalists in all media organizations BON also welcomed the address for co-operation by the Media Forum for Agriculture (MFA).

7th General Assembly of BON
The venue was Imo Concord Hotel, Owerri on 26th and 27th November 1990. BON received with approval the address by a Representative of National Electoral Commission (NEC), Mrs. Eno Irukwu, who called for equal coverage for the two political parties: the National republican Convention and the Social Democratic Party (SDP). The Assembly set up a committee to study the effect of TVRO i.e. Television Receive Only (satellite) on Broadcasting and the society at large.
The 7th General Assembly noted the directive by the National Council on Information to take up more seriously the issue of TV/Radio license fees. The meeting was also briefed on the outcome of the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association’s meeting which was held in Cyprus. The meeting welcomed the election of the Director-General of NTA, Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim to the 11 man standing committee of the CBA. The committee is the policy making organ of the CBA. The next CBA conference, it was announced would be held in Botswana in 1992, while its regional conference was scheduled for 1991 in Sierra Leone. The Assembly hoped that more of its members would attend the two CBA meetings.

BON Executive Secretary designate, Mr. Obadiah Tohomdet of the Plateau Radio Television Corporation was formally received by the meeting. He was expected to operate the full fledged BON Secretariat from 2nd January 1991.

8th General Assembly of BON
This was held on 19th and 20th June, 1991 in Bauchi, Bauchi State. The meeting was addressed by representative of Cable Network News (NCC), Association of Advertising Practitioners of Nigeria (AAPN), and Music Copyright Society of Nigeria (MCSN) on matters affecting their respective organizations in relation to BON. CNN was interest in proper acquisition of its news and programme items and also talked of training opportunities for BON member station.
The meeting also approved the acquisition of legal status for BON by registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission at Abuja. As a result of this, the meeting decided on the need to acquire land for permanent secretariat in the Federal Capital.

9th General Assembly of BON
Declared opened by the then Military Governor of Kaduna State, Colonel Tanko Ayuba, the meeting was held from 4th to 6th November, 1991 at Hamdala Hotel, Kaduna. The Military Governor of Kaduna State said that the electronic media was the most potent organ of social – political mobilization in the country. He implored the meeting and broadcasters general to exercise the discretion on information which was placed at their disposal dispassionately.

Following the report by BON delegates on the Vice-President, Vice Admiral Augustus Aikhomu on 23rd April, 1991, the meeting inaugurated the “Committee on Requests to the Federal Government”. The requests were based on the problems of the Broadcasting Industry and the need for adequate funding of broadcasting stations by governments. To protect its commercial interest, the meeting advised its members to adhere strictly agreed rates.
It also agreed that BON member stations should deal with agencies on ‘cash and carry’ basis. Receiving reports on TVRO’s, the General Assembly noted that in spite of some advantages of the TVRO’s, that is gradual penetration with some wrong information into some sensitive sections of the society like the Universities and Upper class, would spell serious danger to the social – political, psychological and economic health of the country.

Mr. Moses Ekpo, the Director of the Nigeria Copyright Commission addressed the Assembly on Broadcasting and Copyright issues. The meeting seized the opportunity to enlighten itself on copyright matters. RATTAWU and Association of Advertising Practitioners of Nigeria (AAPN) also addressed the Assembly.

10th General Assembly of BON
Held in Abuja from 11th to 13th March, 1992. the opening ceremony was performed by the then Honorable Minister of Information and Culture, Professor Sam Oyvbaire. In his opening address, the Minister advocated that State Radio and Televisions Stations should set up community broadcasting stations in local government areas in order to make meaningful impact on the rural areas.
The meeting paid a courtesy call on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida at Aso Rock Villa , Abuja. Responding to the address to him by BON Chairman, Chief Bankola Balogun on the problems, prospects and activities of BON in relation to nation building, the President promised to alleviate some of the problems.
The meeting also mapped out strategies for participation in the various training programmes taking place at the time viz: Ogun State/ Voice of Germany Seminar for GL. 10 – 12 officers; FRCN/ Radio Deutschewelle Workshop, and BON sponsored seminar for August 1992.
Apart from the representatives of the CNN, the meeting was also addressed by the Chief Executive of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) and Directorate of Food, Roads, and Rural Infrastructural (DFFRI) their address were centered on common interest and areas of co-operation between BON and their respective organizations.

The 10th Assembly also considered and approved a nationwide electronic media survey. The survey was intended to provide among others, reliable and comprehensive data on population, distribution of essential electronic media stations, audience and commercial prospects for such station.

The meeting formerly accepted the policy of the Federal Government to allow private ownership of electronic media and recommended guidelines for that. It is significant to note that most of the Federal Governments guidelines agreed with BON recommendations. The Guidelines formed the bedrock establishment of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). The meeting also approved the resuscitating of the Society of Nigeria Broadcasters (SNB)

11th General Assembly of BON
Edo Broadcasting Service in Benin City, played host from 4th to 6th August, 1992. The opening ceremony was performed by the Executive Governor of the State, Chief (Dr.) John Odigie Oyegun. In his opening address, the Governor opined that while foreign radio and television signals could broaden knowledge with some democratic implications, the meeting should take a closer look at the negative implication of such waves on the general social- political and cultural life of the Nigeria nation.
One of the highlights of the deliberations was the inauguration of the committee for Seminar and Broadcasting Night. The occasion was to honor retired BON members. In order to facilitate the development of broadcasting in Nigeria, another committee was constituted to organize an International technical broadcast Exhibition.
The meeting extolled the performance of Chief Bankole Balogun as the Chairman, whose term lapsed at the close of the meeting. The meeting accordingly appointed the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Yaya Abubakar,mni as Chairman of BON.

12th General Assembly of BON
Katsina Broadcasting Service played host to this meeting in Katsina from 3rd to 5th November 1992. The meeting endorsed the success of the Seminar/ Broadcaster Night which took place 26th – 28th August 1992, at the National Theatre, Lagos. The General Assembly agreed that the Seminar/Broadcaster Night helped in exchange of knowledge on current developments in the broadcast industry and that it brought together politicians, academics, including the renowned, Nobel Laurette, Professor Wole Soyinka and prominent Nigeria Musician who were broadcasters. It was reported that 14 artistes and musicians attended the Broadcasters Night.
The meeting was declared open by the Civilian Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Saidu Barda.

13th General Assembly of BON
The Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) played host in this meeting in Ibadan on 5th and 6th April, 1993. The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Chief Kolapo Ishola who declared the meeting open, commended the performances of the electronic media in the country. He called for an increase of the educational broadcasting in the area of adult education, formal and vocational education. Further tribute was paid to BON through this meeting by Dr. Tom Adaba, the Director-General of the National Broadcast Commission (NBC). He congratulated the founding father of BON and the present members on establishing BON as a veritable and noble organization that hoisted the cause of broadcasting in the country in spite of its teething problems. Dr. Adaba seized the opportunity to enlighten the Assembly on the duties of NBC. The meeting accepted the recommendations of its programme Committee on effective exchange programmes by BON member stations. The meeting also c accepted the recommendation for News and Programmes Competitions by radio and television stations. The objectives of these were to promote healthy competitions, and improve the royalty from programmes and news items by member stations, as well as improve the image of the organizations. The meeting also accepted the report on “Standardization Broadcast Equipment in Nigeria” presented by the Director Engineering, NTA, Engr. Isaac Wakombo. In essence, the report recommends BON adherence to international standards and specifications in acquisition, usage and maintenance of equipment. The report also recommended the need to properly equip training schools to meet modern developments in the broadcast industry.
Considering the growing activities of BON, the meeting undertook its reorganization for more effectiveness. BON now has five (5) zones with a Vice-Chairman, heading each zone. The zones include Sokoto, Jos, Abeokuta, Benin and Umuahia. The chairmen are the Chief Executives of the state electronic media stations. It was also agreed that the constitution of BON be reviewed to incorporate the changes and to include private radio and television stations as members.

The 13tgh General Assembly demonstrated BON’s willingness for International co-operation. It gave audience to Mr. Daniel Oliver, the Director, International Development, Radio France International. The essence of the meeting was to establish report on exchange programme between Radio France and Anglophone countries, particularly Nigeria.

14th Assembly of BON
The meeting was held at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos on 21st and 22nd April 1994. addressing the opening ceremony, the Federal Minister of Information and Culture, Professor Jerry Gana, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to solving the problems of inadequate funding, and obsolescent equipment in the broadcasting Industry. The Minister also re-emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to the freedom of press and professionalism. Professor Gana also called on BON to see the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) as partner in the progress of the broadcasting industry.

As part of efforts to sanitize the broadcasting industry, BON Chairman, Yaya Abubakar, called on the BON members to check over dependence on part time broadcasters, and to utilize more effectively the NTA Television College, Jos and FRCN Training School in Lagos for the training of their staff.

The General Assembly encouraged the Vice-Chairman of its five zones to organize workshops, seminars, etc on topical issues on behalf of BON in their respective zones.
15th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON), was held in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State from 27th to 28th October, 1994.
Declaring the event open, the Military Administrator of Rivers State, Lt. Colonel Duauda Musa Komo, reminded broadcasters of the noble role of Nigeria early journalist in achieving independence and nationhood and advised that whatever dissenting views in the country, the central interest of everyone should be its unity.
Colonel Komo said that the tendency for foreign media organizations to focus only on negative events in Nigeria or Africa could be corrected by BON. In his speech during the occasion, the Chairman of BON, Mallam Yaya Abubakar’mni, implored Chief Executives of States to exercise restraint in their removal of media Executive. This, he said, would promote stability in the industry.
Mallam Abubakar also noted the admission of private broadcasting stations to BON as very significant to the growth of the industry.

16th General Assembly of BON
The 16th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON), held at Conference Hall, Federal Secretariat, Yola, from 12thto 13th January, 1995, was declared opened by the Military Administrator of Adamawa State, Police Commissioner, Mustapha Ismail.

In his address, the Administrator charge the delegates to identify themselves at al times as vital partners and indispensable comrades in building a nation which ensure hope, pride, unity and peaceful co-existence for present and future generations. The Military Administrator told the delegates that the country needed protection, adding that its image both at home and abroad should not be compromise in any circumstance.

The Assembly was also attended by the Honorable Minister of Information and Culture, Professor Jerry Gana who expressed delight on the excellent job being done by the various chief executives of electronic media organizations despite, obsolescent equipment and inadequate funding.
The Honorable Minister announced that the contract for the rehabilitation of Voice of Nigeria transmitters was at advance stage.
Professor Gana noted that FIFA organizers had also been convinced to acquire new equipment for Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) for the coverage of the Africa Youth Championship and Junior World Cup tagged Nigeria ’95.
In his remarks, the Chairman of BON and Director-General, Nigeria Television Authority, Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim enumerated a number of problems facing the broadcast industry, obsolescent equipment and lack of adequate funding.
During the occasion, the Technical Expert in joint co-operation between BON and the French Embassy, Mr. Phillipe Judeaux was received by the Assembly.

17th General Assembly of BON
The 17th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) was held in Conference hall, Daula Hotel, Kano from 22nd to 23rd June, 1995.
Declaring the event open, the Military Administrator of Kano, State Col. Mohammadu Abdullahi Wase said that the conference came at a time when Nigerians, more than ever before, requires adequate positive enlightenment on the activities of government sustain the corporate existence of the country.
He stressed the need for media houses to shun irresponsible journalism which he said tended to cause descent. Delivering the key note address, the Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, Dr. Walter Ofonagoro, charged the Chief Executives to redress the image of Nigeria at home and abroad. He said the image of the country had been severely battered by the Western Press through the assistance of some few individuals and interest groups within and outside Nigeria.

Dr. Ofonagoro called on BON to engage in investigative and developmental journalism for the education and entertainment of the Nigeria populace.
In his remarks, the Chairman of BON and Director – General of the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim’ mni, said that the gathering of the Chief Executives was to discuss a number of thorny issues like NBC license fees, huge indebtedness to BON member stations by Advertising Agencies and mapping out new guidelines on how to give adequate publicity to government activities, particularly the transition to civil rule.
The Chairman appealed to the Hounourable Minister of Information and Culture to intervene on the debt situation, so that the agencies concerned could bay up. Mallam Ibrahim commended the Kano State Government for the grant of N4 million to Kano Broadcasting Corporation and the token given to Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and promised that the money would be judiciously spent for the purpose it was meant for.
The Assembly was informed of the appointment of Elder Anyim Ude as the Sole Administrator, Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State and Director of Finance and Supplies, Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Bubakar Jijiwa, as Commissioner for Finance budget and Economic Planning of Adamawa State.

18th General Assembly of BON
The 18th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) held at Old House of Assembly, Uyo from 9th to 10th November, 1995.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Military Administrator of Akwa Ibom State, Lt. Colonel Yakubu Bako described the theme of the Assembly which focused on the transmission programme as apt and enjoined operators of the electronic media to ensure that Nigerians were adequately informed of the political programmes. Colonel Bako disclosed that as part of government efforts to ensure effective public enlightenment for the transition and related programmes, arrangement had been concluded to acquire new transmitters for the AM Station of Akwa Ibom broadcasting Corporation, Uyo.

In his remarks, the Chairman of BON and Director-General, NTA, identified lack of adequate funding of the electronic media obsolete equipment, and the huge debt owned member organizations by advertising agencies as the main problems of BON.
Other decisions taken by the General Assembly was that a media survey will be carried out by BON in conjunction with APCON.
The Assembly set up an ad-hoc committee to work out modalities for National Workshop on Broadcasting to be held in April, 1996. The Assembly also restructured the standing committees of BON.

19th General Assembly of BON
The 19th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) was held in Abuja from 11th to 12th April, 1996.
The Assembly which was held at Abuja Sheraton Hotel and Tower was declared open by the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, General Jeremiah Useni, who in his speech, charged
The Chief Executives to use their powerful medium to promote the unity and stability of the country.

In his address, the Chairman of BON and Director-General, NTA, Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim noted that most public owned broadcasting media were operating with obsolete equipment adding that the owners of such medium should adequately fund them to enhance their operations.

He also said that the operations of Radio and Television Station were being impeded by the huge debts owed broadcast stations by advertising agencies running millions of naira.

20th General Assembly of BON
The 20th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), played host to by Kaduna State Media Corporation was held in General Hassan Katsina Banquet hall, Kaduna, from 9th to 10th October, 1996. It was declared open by the Military Administrator of Kaduna State; Lt. Colonel hammed Ibrahim Ali, who expressed appreciation for the broad-based nature of the participants. He hoped that at the end of the meeting, the Chief Executives will establish an appropriate framework for the positive mobilization of Nigerians towards economic recovery and the development of a viable social-political culture.

In his address, the Chairman of BON and Director-General of FRCN, Alhaji Abdurrahman Micika said that the assembly would discuss a number of thorny issues, including redeeming the huge indebtedness to BON member organizations by Advertising Agencies, mapping out new guidelines on how to give adequate publicity to government activities., particularly the transition to civil rule Programmes.
He commended Kaduna State Government for the full support and cooperation given to KSMC for actualizing the dream of state owned television and the establishment of a FM station.

One of highlights of the Assembly was the successful interview and appointment of a new Executive Secretary by a four-man ad-hoc committee of the Central Working Committee (CWC) constituted to handle the issue on 9th October 1996. Members of the ad-hoc committee included Alhaji Y. Saulawa, Director of Programmes (VON); Chairman, Basorun Tunde Elegbede, General Manager Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation, Abeokuta; Reverend Father Fracis Mbaba, Director, Radio Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation, Uyo; and Alhaji M.M Kurama, Secretary/ Legal Adviser to the FRCN. Among the three candidates that were interviewed was C.O Nweke of Anambra Broadcasting Service, Akwa, who was appointed the new Executive Secretary of BON after a very competitive interview. This was ratified by the General Assembly.
The 20th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) ratified the movement of the BON Secretariat from Lagos to Abuja. Also sixteen Ex-chief Executives of member station of BON were honoured at the Assembly.

21st General Assembly of BON
The 21st General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) played host by DARAR Communications Limited, was held at Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja form 27th to 28th February, 1997.
In his address during the opening ceremony, the Military Administrator of Lagos State, Colonel Mohammed Marwa commended the immense contributions of electronic media organization making towards the promotion of peace, stability and the harmonious relationship among the ethnic groups in the country.

Colonel Marwa noted that because of the importance government attached to the development of the electronic media, his administration would rehabilitate the Lagos State owned media organization as well complete the FM stereo station.

Colonel Mohammed Marwa also used the occasion to launch the 2nd edition of BON quarterly newsletter with the sum of N100, 000.00.

In his address, the Chairman of BON, Alhaji Abdurrahaman Micikia gave a brief history of the organization, and said that the deregulation of the electronic media, membership of BON now included private radio and televisions.

In his welcome address, Executive Chairman of DAAR Communication, Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, the host of the 21st General Assembly expressed gratitude to BON Chief Executives for the confidence reposed on the first private electronic media in Nigeria to the host Assembly.

The 21st General Assembly received presentations from the National Vice President of the Society of Nigeria Broadcasters, Late Chef Bankole Balogun; the Chairman of Performing and Mechanical Rights Society of Nigeria (PMRS), Chef (Mrs.) Keji Okunowo; and the Director-General of Nigerian Copyright Commission, Mr. Moses Ekpo.

22nd General Assembly of BON
The 22nd General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) played host to by Enugu State Broadcasting Service, Enugu was held in Hotel Presidential, Enugu from 10th to 11th 1997.
Declaring the Assembly open, the Military Administrator of Enugu State, Colonel Sule Ahman implored the Chief Executives to utilize their powerful medium to educate and enlighten the public, to ensure the success of the nation’s transition programme.
The Administrator also advice the Chief Executive of Electronic media particularly television to discourage the airing of violent and pornographic programme by their stations.

In his address, the Chairman of BON and Director-General, FRCN, Alhaji Abdurrahman Micika said that the two-day meeting was deliberate on how to move the nation’s broadcasting industry forward.

He noted that effort would be made on how to ensure that local government councils cede their current constitutional right to collect radio and television licence fees, to broadcasting stations who are the rightful owners.
The ad-hoc committee on Copyright and Royalties presented paper/report to the Assembly through its Chairman, Alhaji Lawal Saulawa for consideration.

23rd General Assembly of BON
The 23rd General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) played host to by Broadcasting Corporations of Niger State, was held at Conference Hall, Shiroro Hotel, Minna from 25th to 26th February, 1998.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Military Administrator of Niger State, Commissioner of Police, Simeon Oduoye called on the Chief Executives of the nation’s electronic media to ensure that the contents their news and programmes were objectives and geared towards promoting peace and stability of the country.

The Administrator noted that because of the importance his administration has for the electronic media, it had committed resources to resuscitate the state owned Radio station with ultra-modern equipment.
Governor Oduoye launched the fourth edition of BON Quarter newsletter with the sum of N250,000.00

In his address, the Chairman of BON and Director-General of FRCN, Alhaji Abdurrahman Micika said that during the two-day meeting, delegates will deliberate on a number of issues affecting the broadcasting industry, such as the huge debts owed Radio and Television stations by advertising agencies, the coverage of the concluding part of the transition to civil rule program and forthcoming World Cup in France.

The General Assembly adopted a recommendation of the commercial committee that all commercial managers should meet twice a year.

The Executive Director, FRCN, Enugu National Station, reported that FRCN, NTA and VON had concluded plans to transmit live, the Papal visit to Nigeria. He advised that Stations that were interested in the live transmission should be free to hook to the FRCN.

25th General Assembly of BON
The 25th General Assembly of Broadcasting organizations of Nigeria (BON) played host to by Cross River Broadcasting Corporation was held in Calabar from 15th to 16th September 1998.
The Assembly was formally declared open on behalf of the Cross River State Military Administrator, Navy Commander, Christopher Osondu, by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. David Obuo Ashang.

In his address, Commander Osondu charged the Chief Executives to examine how to influx of satellite broadcast will not endanger the nation’s cultural values and local programming. He noted that the mere fact the world is a global village; the electronic media should not allow the nation’s culture to be eroded by the flood of instant and indiscriminate information.

The Assembly received goodwill message from the Millitary Administrator of Akwa Ibom State, Group Captain John Ebinye, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mrs. Christy Obot.

The Assembly received a presentation from an estate Surveyor. Messrs Oriala & Co., who in his paper entitled “Revenue Mobilization from Audio/Visual Receiver (TV/Radio Sets)”, argued that Radio and Television stations in the country could enhance their revenue by N15.8 Billion if Radio and Television sets licence fees were collected.
He called for BON to lobby and ensure that a constitutional amendment to collect the Radio/TV set licence fees.
The Assembly also called on member stations to impress on their commercial/marketing officer to register with APCON, to qualify them as professional marketing officers.

The Assembly endorsed the need for an industry wide sponsorship of electronic media survey by BON, AAPN, ADVAN and OAAN.

Highlights of the 25th General Assembly of BON was handling the mantle of leadership of BON by the Director-General of FRCN, Alhaji Abdurrahman Micika,, to the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Yaya Abubakar’mni after serving two years as Chairman.

The 26th General Assembly of BON
The 26th General Assembly of the Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) played host by Radio Benue was held in at Makurdi from 3rd to 5th February, 1999.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Military Administrator of Benue State, Colonel Dominic Oneya called on the Chief Executives to their powerful medium to support the democratization process by the Federal Government.

Colonel Oneya noted that the broadcast media should strive to promote issues that would lead to the continued unity and stability of Nigeria.

The Chairman of BON and Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Yaya Abubakar’mni said that the two-day meeting would focus on how the broadcast media could jointly cover and transmit World Youth Soccer Championship tagged Nigeria ’99 as well as how the broadcast media could contribute towards successful coverage of the remaining elections, and swearing ceremonies, of the in-coming civilian administration.

The 26th General Assembly received presentations from the National Vice-President of Society of Nigeria Broadcasters, Chief Bankole Balogun and the National President of (RATTAWU), Comrade Salihu A. Dembos.

The Chairman of BON announced that Voice of Nigeria (VON) has allocated an office at Plot 872, Area 11, Osogbo Close, Garki, Abuja, to be used as BON Secretariat. He also promised to install telephone and fax machine in the Secretariat to enhance its communication with member stations and the public.

27th General Assembly of BON
The 27th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) jointly played host to by Ondo Television and Ondo State Radio Corporations held at Ondo State Cultural Centre and Owena Motels Limited, Akure from Wednesday 21st to Thursday, 22nd July, 1990.
The Assembly was the first to hold after the successful transition from military to civil in 1999.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Governor of Ondo State, Chief Adebayo Adefarti, stated that no democracy could survive in a country infested with corruption and urged Chief Executives of Radio and Television stations to use their position to fight against corruption and general decadence in Nigeria.

In his address, the Chairman of BON and Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Yaya Abubakar congratulated His Excellency, Speaker of the State House of Assembly and members for their success in the series of elections that ushered democratic structures in the country.

The Assembly received presentations from the Cultural Attaché of the French Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. David Hivet, who had earlier presented 20 television sets donated by the French Government member station.

The Assembly also took decision on the modalities to share the N10.6 million made as profit by BON member stations during the joint transmission of World Youth Soccer Champion captioned Nigeria ’99.

The 28th General Assembly of BON
The 28th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) played host to by Eko FM, Ikeja, Lagos, was held from the 25th to 26th May, 2000 at the Eko FM Auditorium.

Declaring the Assembly opened, the Governor of Lagos State, Senator Bola Tinubu represented by the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Dele Alake said that Radio and Television station constitute the most important, effective and widespread means of information dissemination in any society.
He enjoined the Chief Executives of Broadcasting Organization to maximally exploit the immerse potentials of Broadcasting to ensure that Democracy was firmly rooted in Nigeria.

In his Address, the Chairman of BON and Director- General, VON, Mr. Taiwo Allimi lamented the obsolete state of broadcast equipment used by public-owned broadcasting stations in the country and called for urgent replacement of the outdate technology by Government and the introduction of Digital Technology without which Nigeria would be left behind.
The 28th General Assembly received various goodwill message from International Organization as well as distinguished Nigerians; Mrs. Elizabeth Smith, Secretary General, Commonwealth Broadcasting Association (CBA); Dr. Johannes Hoffman, Director-General of Radio Deutsche Welle; Director-General Radio France International, Mr. Barry Langride; Director, BBC World Service, Mrs. Babara Skerath; Director, Deutsche Welle Radio Training Centre; Mr. Victor Reardon, Harris Communications; and Mr. John U.W. Pedhow, Broadcast Electronics and Executive Chairman, DAAR Communication, Dr. Raymond Dokpesi.

The Assembly also received presentations from Managing Director of News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mallam Wada A. Maida; Director-General, Nigeria Copyright Commission, Mr. Moses F. Ekpo; Regional Sales Director, Africa and Middle East, Harris Corporation, Mr. V.C Reardon; Mr. Dennis Week of World Space Satellite Systems; Audio/Visual Attache’, French Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Thomas Milon, the Director-General, National Broadcasting Commission, NBC, Mallam Danladi Bako; and Mr. Michael Braxton, Office of Transition Initiatives (USAID), Lagos.

The 29th General Assembly of BON
The 29th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) played host by Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State (BCA) was held in General Aguiyi Ironsi Auditorium, Umuahia from 21st to 22nd June 2001.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Government of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, laughed the deregulation of the electronic media adding that the establishments of private radio and television stations in the country, apart from offering a wider choice to viewers through quality programming, have also helped in reducing unemployment.

Governor Uzor Kalu enjoined the Chief Executives of Broadcasting stations to find an immediate solution to the addiction of the nation’s youth to violet movies and pornography aired by some television stations.

The Abia State Governor called for the strengthening of the power of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), so that the sole responsibility of approving licences should be removed from the office of the President and give to it.

Governor Kalu also said that his administration had invested enormous financial resources in rebuilding of obsolete infrastructure in the electronic and print media in the state.
In his Address, the chairman of BON and Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Taiwo Allimi assured that broadcasting promote good governance and ensure the continued cohesion of Nigeria as an indivisible country.

He said that the organization would not relent in the routine organization of seminars, workshops to train and retain staff of the member organizations.

Highlight of the Assembly were the endorsement of the democratization of the leadership of BON; and the election of Mr. Taiwo Allimi for two year tenure as Chairman of BON.

30th General Assembly of BON
The General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) was held at Women Development Centre, Yola from 27th to 29th September, 2001. Presenting a keynote address on behalf of Governor of Adamawa State, Mr. Taiwo Allimi noted that the role of Broadcasting was vital and critical at this stage of our developments; the survival of democracy in the country.

In his goodwill message, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Professor Jerry Gana, who was represented by the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mallam Danladi Bako enjoined the nation’s media to produced programmes that would impart positive values on the citizenry adding that the broadcast media has its paramount responsibility to ensure the sustenance of the nation’s democracy.

The Assembly received presentations from the President of Association of Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (AAPN), Mrs. Bola Thomas and the Executive Director of the Organizing Committee of the “8th All African Games” COJA, Dr. Amos Adamu, represented by the General Manager (Operations) of (COJA), Mallam Mainasara Illo, who spoke on the state of preparations of the games and the involvement of the broadcast media.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Minister of the Federal Capital territory, Engr. Muhammed Abba-Gana, described the theme of the Assembly which was “The Challenge of Promoting Democratic Values in an Election Year, 2002/2003, the Role of Broadcasting” as quit crucial, considering the important of the forthcoming elections holding in 2002 and 2003 beginning with the local government elections.

He enjoyed the broadcast media organization to evolve ways of preventing over ambitious politicians from using state or privately owned broadcasting stations as political weapons for fighting the perceived political enemies and destabilizing the policy.

Engr. Gana used the forum to invite worthy captains of the broadcasting industry to set up more broadcasting stations in the Federal Capital territory.

In his key-note address, the Minister of Information and national Orientation, Professor Jerry Gana noted that the 32nd General Assembly of the Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) holding at a critical period of the nation’s democracy, as registered political parties were grappling with their primaries which would enable them choose their local government representatives at the grassroots level.

The Minister expressed satisfaction that BON was poised to sensitize Nigerians with enlighten campaigns to enable them participate in the imminent voters registration exercise.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of BON & Director-General of VON, Mr. Taiwo Allimi said that Nigerians were passing through a very crucial phase in her history and stressed the need for broadcasters to ensure the nation’s transformation and the substance of its nascent democracy.

Presentations were made to the business session of the Assembly by the Director-General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN, Dr. Eddie Iroh; the Executive Chairman, DAAR Communication Limited, Chief Raymond Dokpesi; the Director-General, National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mallam Dalandi Bako.

Special goodwill message were delivered to the Assembly by Government of Bauchi State, Alhaji Adamu Muazu; Imo State Governor, Achike Udenwa; and the Chairman, National Agency for the Prevention and Control of AIDS, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin.

One of the resolutions adopted was the call on State Governments who were yet to implement a uniform designation for all broadcasting chief executives to implement same without further delay.

33rd General Assembly of BON
The 33rd General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) played host to by Kano State Radio Corporation, was held at Royal Tropicana Hotel, Kano from Wednesday 11th to Friday 13th December, 2003.

The opening ceremony of the Assembly was performed by the Governor of Kano State, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, ably represented by his Deputy-Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

In his speech, Governor Kwankwaso advised the broadcast media to highlight programmes and news that would foster brotherhood, love and unity among Nigerians.

In his Address, the Chairman of BON & Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Taiwo Allini noted that the Assembly chose the theme “Broadcasting and the Challenge of Seeking Accurate Answer to National Problems” to enable the broadcast media set the agenda for public disclosures and enlightenment on crucial social and political issues.

The Assembly received presentations from the Director-General, Nigeria Copyright Commission, Professor E.S Nwauche and General Manager, Performing and Mechanical Right Society (PRMS), Mr. Chris Ajilo.

34th General Assembly of BON
The 34th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) played host to by Cross Rive Broadcasting Corporation was held at Cross River State Library Complex, Calabar from 6th to 8th August, 2003.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Governor of Cross River State, Mr. Donald Duke, represented by the State Deputy-Governor, Walter Eneji, in his speech, welcomed the Chief Executive of Radio and Television stations in the country to Cross River State, at a time; his administration was poised to package the state as a tourist haven in Nigeria.

He described the theme of the General Assembly: “Putting National Development in the Heart of Broadcasting” as apt and timely adding that the media should assist government at all levels in the onerous task of evolving an egalitarian society that was free from the shackles of injustice, justice, poverty and underdevelopment.

In his own goodwill message, the Hounorable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Chief Chukwemeka Chikelu said that Radio and Television stations in the country have a crucial role to play in stabilizing the polity and mobilizing Nigerians to appreciate the commitment of Government to transform the society.

He enjoined all Radio and Television stations to accept the challenge to serve a catalyst for development adding that their news and programmes must be geared towards providing answer to critical issues of sustainable development, the economy, corruption, health and HIV/AIDS.

Chief Chikelu lauded Radio and Television stations for the professional way they covered the 2003 General Election, which was largely responsible for the very low incidence of electoral violence and apathy.

The minister also drew attention of Broadcasting Media Executives to the forthcoming events of international magnitude, that broadcast stations have to give accurate coverage, which were the “8th All Africa Games” holding in Abuja from 4th of October, 2003 and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) holding in Abuja in early December, 2003.

In his Address, the Chairmen of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) & Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Taiwo Allimi disclosed that the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association (CBA), Africa regional Conference would hold in Abuja between September 21st to 24th, 20003 with the theme “Broadcasting and Health” adding that the Regional Conference would be attended by about 80 delegates from across the Commonwealth, including the Secretary-General of CBA, Mrs. Elizabeth Smith and the President of the CBA, Executive Committee, Mr. George Valarino from Gibraltar.

35th General Assembly of BON
The 35th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) played host to by Kaduna State Media Corporation, was held at Major General Hassan Katsina House, Kawo, Kaduna from 24th November to 16th December 2003.

The opening ceremony of the 35th General Assembly Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) was performed by the Governor of the Kaduna State, Alhaji Mohamed Makarfi who was represented by the Head of Service of Kaduna State, Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha.

In his speech, Governor Makarfi expressed satisfaction that Kaduna State was chosen to host the cream of the nation’s broadcast media executive and charged them to utilize the three-day meeting to come out with far-reaching decision s geared towards the growing and development of the nation’s broadcasting industry.

In his Address, the Chairman of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) & Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Taiwo Allimi said that BON chose the theme “Broadcasting as an Instrument for Sustainable Community Initiatives and Grassroots Development”, to highlight the need that the broadcast media as well as those at the helm of affairs at the three tiers of government, should join hands in eradicating poverty, unemployment and the upsurge of various types of preventable diseases in the nation.
A highlight of the decisions of the Assembly was adoption and approval of the first enabling constitution for BON.
The Assembly received presentation from Assistant Project Officer (UNICEF), Dr. Muhammed Q. Ahmad; Deputy Resident Representative (UNDP) Nigeria, Mrs. Nancy Asanga, and Managing Director, Media Track, Mr. Colin Smith.

36th General Assembly of BON
The 36th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON)with the theme “Broadcasting as an Instrument for Peace Management in Democratic Governance: Content and Creative Programming” was played host to by Osun State, Broadcasting Corporation at MicCom Golf Hotels and Resort, Ada, Osun State from 21st to 23rd April, 2004.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinola, who was represented by the Commissioner of Information and Women Affairs, Mrs. Bunmi Famoriyo commended the Nigeria media for being in the forefront of the enthronement and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria and pledge continuous support for the industry.

In his Address, the Chairman of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) & Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mr. Taiwo Allimi urged Chief Executives of Radio and Television stations in the country to create special programmes that would promote national growth and sustenance of democracy and good governance at all levels.

The Assembly received one presentation from a veteran broadcaster and founder/patron African Refugee Foundation, Chief Segun Olusola entitled: “The Bond that Binds Us”.

In his presentation, Chief Olusola said that Broadcaster should routinely read and fee the pulse of the society and use the potent instrument for nation building to ensure stability and sustainable integration of the nation.

The 37th General Assembly of BON
The 37th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) played host to by Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), with the theme “Broadcasting and the Promotion of Nigeria Image and National development Initiatives: A Call for Sustainable Action”, was held at Valencia Hotel, Abuja from 4th to 6th August, 2004.

Declaring the event open, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Chief Chukwuemeka Chikelu urged the Chief Executive of Radio and Television stations not to relent in their commitment to the sustenance of nation’s democracy.
Chief Chikelu urged broadcasters to support the ongoing reforms of the Federal Government as well as the Nigeria Image Project which was designed to provide the nation’s positive values, achievement and aspirations at home and abroad.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) & Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON) Mr. Taiwo Allimi said that the three-day meeting would deliberate on the coverage of the Olympic Games holding in Athens, Greece from 13th to 29th of August 2004, broadcasting industry debts owned by Advertising Agencies, issues of licences and renewal fees charged broadcasting stations by NBC, broadcasting policy reforms and Nigeria Image projects etc.

38th General Assembly of BON
The 38th General Assembly of Broadcasting organization of Nigeria (BON) with the theme “Broadcasting as agent of the Promotion of Communal Peace and Reconciliation” played host to by Plateau State Radio and Television Corporation was held at Jos from 1st to 4th December 2004.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Governor of Plateau State, Chief Joshua Dariye described the theme of the Assembly as apt and relevant to the contemporary developments in the Plateau State.

He described the six-month emergency period in Plateau State as a trying period in the state’s history and expressed his happiness that the entire citizenry of the state had resolved to embrace peace in the order to move the state forward.

Governor Dariye described the media as key instrument in achieving an enduring peace in the state adding that practitioners should shun inflammatory report but embrace those issues that would promote peace and concord.

In his speech, the Minister of Information and National orientation, Chief Chukwuemeka Chikelu represented by the Director–General of National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Dr. Silas Yisa urged Chief Executives of Radio and Television stations in Nigeria to mobilize Nigerians through their media to imbibe values that will promote peaceful co-existence among Nigerians irrespective of their religious and ethnic difference.

In his Address, the Chairman of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) & Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Abubakar B. Jijiwa noted the theme of the Assembly “Broadcasting as agent for the Promotion of communal Peace and Reconciliation” was deliberately chosen to capture the mood in Plateau state and enable the cream of the nation’s broadcasters map out strategies on how they can use their medium to lead the campaign for tolerance, peaceful co-existence and harmonious relationship among all Nigerians irrespective of their ethnicity and religion.

Presentations were mad to the Assembly by Professor Mike Egbon, Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano, whose paper, entitled “Broadcast Ethics” charged broadcasters to be guided by good values.

Presentations were also made by the President and Chairman of Council Independent Television and Radio Programme Producers Association of Nigeria (INTARPPAN), Mr. Elkanah O. Mowarin and Communications Officer of UNICEF, Mrs. Ibironke Babalola whose paper dealt on “Update on Epidemiology of Wild Polio Virus in Nigeria”.

The 39th General Assembly of BON
The 39th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) with the theme “The Role of broadcasting in the Quest for Sustainable National Political Reform in Nigeria” played host to jointly by Rivers State Broadcasting Corporation and Rivers Television was held at Hotel Presidential, Port-Harcourt from 22nd to 24th March, 2005.

Declaring the Assembly open, the Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili urged Chief Executives of Broadcasting Stations in Nigeria to use their power medium to promote national unity and cohesion

He described the theme of the Assembly: “The Role of Broadcasting in the Quest for Sustainable National Political Reforms in Nigeria” as apt. he called of media executives to support efforts such as the National Political Reform Conference geared towards making Nigeria a better place, where justice, peace and equity will prevail.

In his address, the Chairman of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) & Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Abubakar B. Jijiwa said that the 39th General Assembly would provide the forum for delegates to deliberate on issues affecting the growth of broadcasting like the migration from analogue to digital technology, sustenance of high technical and ethical standards by broadcasting stations as well as how to sustain the training and re-training of staff of member stations.

He noted that though BON as an organization was not invited to participate in the National Reform Conference, but it would still make its inputs to the Conference as well as ensure that its deliberations were given adequate publicity and coverage.

The joint secretary of the National Political Reform Conference, Reverend Father Matthew Kukah made a presentation to the Assembly in which he enjoined the broadcast media to transcend from being the master’s voice to being but proactive in its news stories and reporting.

40th General Assembly of BON
The 40th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria (BON) with the theme “Enhancing a Sustained Media Strategy for the Control of the HIV/AIDS Pandemic in Nigeria hosted by Nasarawa Broadcasting Service, was held at Ibrahim Abacha Youth Centre fro 10th to 12th August, 2005.

The Assembly was declared open by the Governor of Nasarawa State, Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Mr. Labaran Maku.

In his speech, Governor Adamu lauded the role the nation’s media played in dark days of dictatorship in Nigeria adding that media activism was responsible for the enthronement of the current democracy Nigerians were enjoying.

The governor enjoined the broadcast media to collaborate with relevant government agencies, especially the National Action Committee on AIDS, NACA to reduce the upsurge of HIV/AIDS pandemic in Nigeria.

In a keynote address, delivered by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Frank Nweke Jnr., he noted that the media was in the vanguard of the struggled against colonialism and oppressive military dictatorship and charged Broadcasters demonstrate the same good will and patriotism by supporting government in actualizing the execution of the economic and political reforms of the administration.

In his address, the Chairman of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) & Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Abubakar Jijiwa said that the theme of the 40th General Assembly “Enhancing a Sustainable Media Strategy for the Control of the HIV/AIDS Pandemic in Nigeria” was chosen to beam a search light on the scourge of HIV/AIDS pandemic in Nigeria.

He said that it was no longer secret that HIV/AIDS was ravaging the human and social-economic fabric of our society, adding that over three million Niger were said to be infected with the disease and the primary causalities fall within the active and productive sector of the economy.

The Assembly received presentations from Christine K. BBC; Ms. Cece Fadepo on Internews (UNSAID); Dr. Jerome Mafeni, Chief of Party Enhanse, USAID, Nigeria; Mr. Segun Odegbami on the preparation for the Gateway Games (National Sports Festival) being hosted by Ogun State in April, 2006; Mrs. Amaka Igwa, an award winning Nigeria Home Video Producer; Chief Ikenna Ndaguba, a Veteran Broadcaster on “Presentation and Broadcast Ethics”.