President Bola Tinubu has endorsed proposals by the Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) aimed at rescuing the nation’s distressed media sector.
Speaking at the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) in Abuja, Tinubu assured editors that requests for corporate tax relief, VAT exemptions, tax deductions, and affordable financing would be considered.
He urged editors to exercise their watchdog role with fairness and patriotism, warning that misinformation could undermine national cohesion and democracy.
“Criticise government policy, but do so with knowledge and fairness. Let your aim be to help build, not destroy,” the President said.
NGE President, Mr. Eze Anaba, had raised alarm over the high cost of operations in the media industry, citing rising newsprint prices and financial strains that threatened staff salaries and the survival of news organisations.
He described the interventions sought as essential safeguards for democracy, emphasizing that “when the press thrives, democracy breathes.”
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, in his keynote address, reminded editors of their influence in shaping public perception and called on them to protect electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections. He stressed that objective and responsible reporting was crucial to national unity.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, lauded Tinubu’s presence at the conference, describing it as a strong affirmation of the media’s role in democracy.
He also highlighted ongoing government initiatives to modernize the media sector, including potential tax reforms, digital grants, and press freedom protections.
