CBI Digital Media strengthens regulatory and editorial foundations ahead of full-scale operations of its flagship news platform

LAGOS, Nigeria — CBI Digital Media Limited, parent company of CBI News, convened a high-level two-day Regulatory and Compliance Workshop in collaboration with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) at the company headquarters in Lagos. The event was attended by members of the company's leadership and operational teams, NBC officials including the Director General Mr. Charles Ebuebu, Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director General of Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) and other industry experts. The workshop marks a significant milestone in CBI News’ journey toward full-scale operations and reflects an institutional commitment to regulatory compliance.

CBI Digital Media Limited, a member company of Baywood Group, is a fully accredited global media conglomerate licensed for Internet Protocol Television (IPTV), Direct Satellite Broadcasting (DSB), and Direct-to-Home (DTH) services which enable the distribution of premium content to audiences worldwide through streaming and legacy broadcast platforms.

In his welcome remarks, the Founder & Executive Chairman of CBI Digital Media, Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe described the workshop as an important platform for professional development, constructive dialogue, and strategic partnership between the NBC and CBI Digital Media.

According to Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe, " Regulatory compliance is the foundation for sustainable operations and we see the National Broadcasting Commission as our partner in ensuring that we operate in accordance with the statutes regulating this ecosystem".

The Director General of the National Broadcasting Commission, Mr. Charles Ebuebu, commended CBI Digital Media for hosting the workshop, which he described as a positive and proactive approach to regulatory compliance. He encouraged other emerging news platforms to emulate the example of CBI Digital Media through constructive engagement with the NBC before commencing full operations.

Participants at the workshop examined the contemporary regulatory and professional landscape covering the Broadcasting Code, licensing obligations, editorial responsibility and right of reply, copyright and intellectual property, advertising and sponsorship, political and election broadcasting, children's and religious programming, local and foreign content, broadcast logging and retention, and online and digital broadcasting. Particular attention was paid to the implications of digital convergence, content standards, commercial compliance, intellectual-property rights, technical standards and consumer protection. "These subjects speak to what it means to operate a responsible and credible media company which requires compliance to be embedded in our processes and work culture " Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe declared.

Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director General of ARCON outlined the activities of ARCON and its relevance to media platforms like CBI Digital Media. He applauded CBI Digital Media for its commitment to regulatory compliance and assured the company of the Council's support. " We are prepared to collaborate with CBI Digital Media to support the company as an emerging media platform to navigate the regulatory requirements regarding advertising in the broadcast sector" said Dr Fadolapo.

Bauchi State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Usman Shehu Usman who was at the workshop described it as extremely informative and commended CBI Digital Media for the initiative. " In a fast changing sector with constantly evolving regulations, it is important to stay informed" he noted.

In closing, Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe reiterated the vision and ambition of CBI Digital Media to be the voice which amplifies authentic and positive African narratives. " It is time for Africa to be take centre stage in global conversations and our mission is to deliver accurate, insightful and relevant journalism that reflects Africa's realities, amplifies African voices and connects Africa with the world" he concluded.

Written by Gbenga Adebija