Address economic challenges facing media industry, NGE urges FG

Following a three-day conference in Yenagoa, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has urged the Federal Government to implement swift measures to cushion the economic effects of fuel subsidy removal and fluctuating exchange rates. At the 20th All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC), editors across the nation called for targeted relief measures, highlighting the strain on both citizens and businesses.

In a communiqué signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the Guild acknowledged the potential long-term benefits of the government’s reforms but emphasized the immediate financial pressures on the media industry.

“The current operational costs are becoming unsustainable,” the statement read, adding that without intervention, media sustainability and economic growth could be at risk.

The Guild recommended that the government consider subsidies or tax reliefs for media organizations to help offset rising costs. Additionally, editors called for policy adjustments to reduce tariffs on essential media equipment, which could alleviate some of the economic burdens faced by news organizations.

Advocating for Sustainable Revenue Models

Addressing media sustainability, the NGE encouraged media owners to diversify their revenue models. Recognizing that traditional advertising is no longer sufficient, they advocated for investments in digital platforms, premium content, and quality journalism to ensure financial viability.

Protecting Journalists and Promoting Ethics

Concerns over the increase in harassment and violence against journalists were raised prominently at the conference. The Guild called for stricter enforcement of journalist protection laws and urged media organizations to provide safety training, particularly for reporters covering sensitive topics. The communiqué also underscored the importance of ethical journalism, advising media proprietors to uphold professional standards to maintain public trust and counter threats to press freedom.

Embracing Digital Transformation and Collaboration

The Guild highlighted the need for digital transformation, recommending media organizations invest in digital skills such as data journalism and multimedia production. It also called for greater collaboration among media organizations, NGOs, and civil society to advocate for press freedom and confront restrictive media policies.

International Focus on Media Sustainability

During the conference, participants discussed the “Big Tech and Journalism – Building a Sustainable Future for the Global South” conference held last year in Johannesburg. With attendees from 24 countries, including Nigeria, the conference aimed to find solutions to the sustainability crisis facing journalism and its intersection with major tech platforms.

The Guild adopted the “Big Tech and Journalism: Principles for Fair Compensation,” a framework intended to guide nations in addressing media sustainability through regulatory approaches. The NGE expressed hope that these principles will contribute to a sustainable future for Nigerian journalism amid challenges from Big Tech platforms.

Resisting Repressive Media Laws

Expressing concern over restrictive media laws, particularly those impacting online platforms, the ANEC resolved to compile and submit anti-media laws to the National Assembly to initiate repeal or amendment processes.

Concluding the conference, the Guild reiterated a shared commitment among Nigerian media executives and editors to promote responsible journalism, support economic stability, and uphold democracy and press freedom in the country.