Nigeria’s leading television stations, African Independent Television (AIT) and Silverbird Television are in big trouble.

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has revoked the licences of the television stations, Raypower FM and Rhythm FM.

A statement by the NBC says:

“Some licensees are yet to pay their outstanding debts, in contravention of the National Broadcasting Commission Act CAP N11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, particularly section 10(a) of the third schedule of the Act.”

“Therefore, after due consideration, NBC hereby announces the revocation of the licenses of the…stations and gives them 24 hours to shut down their operations. Our offices nationwide are hereby directed to collaborate with security agencies to ensure immediate compliance.”

“The broadcast regulator said the continued operation of the “debtor stations is illegal and constitutes a threat to national security.”

“The Commission also calls on all IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) and all other broadcast stations that are streaming online to register with the Commission to avoid disconnection.”

“Broadcasters should note that having a DTT or FM license does not warrant a broadcaster to stream online; they are two different licences.”