On July 9, 2026, in a major move to institutionalize professionalism within Nigeria’s media and advertising landscape, the Senate has passed the Chartered Out-of-Home Media Practitioners of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2026. The legislation officially establishes a centralized regulatory framework and a chartered body to oversee professionals in the out-of-home media industry.
The passage of the bill on Thursday followed a thorough review and adoption of a consolidated report by the Joint Committee on Establishment and Public Service Matters; Information and National Orientation; and Media and Public Affairs.
Sponsored by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South), the bill provides a long-awaited legal framework to govern out-of-home advertising and media practices nationwide. The legislation is designed to eliminate substandard operations, enforce ethical benchmarks, and promote sustainable growth within the sector.
While presenting the joint report, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Service Matters, emphasized that the bill underwent rigorous legislative scrutiny and widespread stakeholder consultation before final recommendations were made.
“Having carefully considered the provisions of the bill and the views of stakeholders, the joint committees are satisfied that the bill is well conceived, timely, and in the national interest,” Fasuyi stated, urging his colleagues to back the regulatory milestone.
Following a detailed clause-by-clause evaluation in the Committee of the Whole, the Red Chamber approved the bill through a decisive voice vote.
Reflecting on the wider implications of media regulation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the lawmakers for taking a proactive stance on professional accountability, noting the profound impact that media dissemination has on national security and social stability.
This will bring sanity and order for those who practice journalism even in their homes.Because some breaking news can break the country and even some homes. I thank the senate for this bold step, and I pray that this will advance development in our country.
Senator Godswill Akpabio.
The bill will now be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being forwarded to the President for assent.
