SABC News Defends Coverage of Fani-Kayode’s Credential Ceremony
SABC News Defends Coverage of Fani-Kayode’s Credential Ceremony
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) News has reaffirmed its commitment to fair, balanced and impartial journalism following criticism by Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, over its coverage of his Letters of Credence ceremony in Pretoria.
In a media statement posted on its official X account on Sunday, November 15, 2026, SABC News said it had noted the High Commissioner’s social media comments concerning its coverage of the ceremony held at the Sefako Makatho Presidential Guesthouse on Friday.
The broadcaster expressed regret that Fani-Kayode declined an interview with its news team, reportedly over his dissatisfaction with the livestream of the ceremony.
“We respect his decision and remain open to engaging with him and the Nigerian High Commission,” the statement said.
Addressing the controversy, SABC News clarified that it was a public service media organisation and not a state broadcaster.Read Daily News
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“First, the SABC is a public service media, not a state broadcaster. Our mandate is to serve the public interest through independent, impartial and credible journalism,” it stated.
The broadcaster also stressed that the Presidency’s livestream arrangements and its editorial coverage were separate matters.
SABC News further maintained that it covered the ceremony across its platforms, including the SABC News LIVE channel on SABC+, while the High Commissioner’s arrival was shown during a live crossing on the SABC News Channel, DStv Channel 404.
It added that it also published a video clip on its official X account showing Fani-Kayode speaking with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Reaffirming its editorial position, the broadcaster said it remained committed to “upholding the principles of fairness, impartiality and editorial independence in its coverage”.
It also emphasised the importance of its longstanding relationship with Nigeria, expressing its commitment to maintaining that relationship.
