Owerri Meeting Highlights Pressing Issues from Economy to Insecurity, Education, and Media Freedom
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) wrapped up their pivotal executive council meeting in Owerri on August 15, 2025, with a clear message: Nigeria is at a crossroads, and urgent action is needed to tackle the country’s mounting problems.
Gathered in Imo State, the NGE Standing Committee shared their deep concerns about the nation’s complex crises – ranging from economic hardships and rising inflation to security threats and deteriorating education systems. They called on the federal government to boost safety nets as many Nigerians continue to struggle with poverty, unemployment, and the relentless climb in the cost of living.
The Guild welcomed recent successes in the fight against terrorism, highlighting the arrests of leaders from dangerous militant groups, including Ansaru and Mahmuda. Yet, they remain worried about ongoing insecurity fueled by banditry, kidnapping, and criminal herders, which threatens food production and the livelihoods of farmers. A holistic security approach involving intelligence, community policing, and collaboration with key stakeholders was strongly recommended.
Education also took centre stage. The Guild criticized chronic underfunding and crumbling infrastructure, urging governments to prioritize education by meeting the UN’s benchmark of dedicating at least 26% of budgets to the sector, alongside better support for teachers.
On the media front, the Guild condemned rising attacks on journalists and media houses by security agencies and other groups, warning that weakening the press endangers democracy, transparency, and public trust.
The meeting ended on a hopeful note, thanking Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma for his commitment to democracy and urging ongoing cooperation between government and media to build a peaceful, united nation.
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