Broadcast Regulation and Ethical Compliance: Investigating Awareness and Implementation of the NBC (2023) Code in Rivers State

This study examined the level of awareness and compliance with the National Broadcasting Code (2023) among selected broadcast stations in Rivers State, Nigeria. Anchored on the Social Responsibility and Gatekeeping theories, the research adopted a qualitative documentary design using content analysis of nine broadcast materials drawn from five stations—Nigeria Info, Rhythm FM, Wazobia FM, NTA Port Harcourt, and Radio Rivers II. The findings revealed that awareness of the Code among broadcasters is moderate but uneven, with most stations upholding truthfulness and factual accuracy while showing lapses in fairness, balance, sponsorship disclosure, and editorial independence. Non-compliance was largely attributed to institutional weaknesses, political influence, and financial dependency, rather than ignorance of the Code’s provisions. The study recommends that the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) should implement continuous professional development programmes, including periodic workshops and certification courses, to ensure consistent understanding and application of the Code. Furthermore, to address political interference and selective enforcement, the institutional autonomy of the NBC should be safeguarded through independent oversight committees involving the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and civil society. Finally, public and private broadcasters are encouraged to diversify revenue sources through audience-supported models, grant funding, and public–private partnerships to reduce external influence and promote ethical editorial practices. The study concludes that strengthening transparency, accountability, and independence within Nigeria’s broadcast system is essential for sustaining ethical journalism and enhancing democratic governance.