NCA Orders 62 Defaulting FM Stations to Suspend Operations Over Regulatory Violations

By Joylinda Laryea / June 12, 2025

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has ordered 62 FM broadcasting stations across the country to immediately suspend operations for failing to comply with regulatory requirements.

According to a press release issued by the NCA, the directive follows a recent audit that revealed several infractions by these stations, including operating with expired authorisations, failing to set up within the stipulated timeframe, and not paying required fees. The move is in line with a directive from the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation to enforce applicable sanctions on defaulting broadcasters.

The infractions, categorized in four main groups, include:

28 stations operating with expired authorisations, despite previous orders in 2024 to cease operations, in violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).

14 stations issued Notices of Revocation for failure to commence operations within two years, but which remain on air without rectifying the lapses identified during inspections.

13 stations that received Provisional Authorisations but have not completed the required fee payments, rendering their operations unauthorized.

7 stations that have paid provisional fees but have yet to meet other regulatory conditions necessary for final authorisation.

The NCA emphasized that the affected stations do not currently hold valid broadcasting licences or Certificates of Compliance and may only resume broadcasting once all infractions are resolved.

“While we recognize the important role of radio in national development, regulatory compliance is non-negotiable,” the statement said. “Non-compliance constitutes a serious breach and will attract severe consequences.”

The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order in the broadcasting industry and called on all licence holders to adhere strictly to the conditions of their authorisations.

For more information, the NCA can be reached at No. 6 Airport City, Accra, via email at info@nca.org.gh or by phone on 030-2776621 / 2771701 or 050-145-1522/3.