Editors call for tax reliefs, legal protection, and stronger partnership to safeguard press freedom and democracy
Abuja, November 12, 2025
President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Eze Anaba, has urged the Federal Government to recognise journalism as a public good deserving of policy incentives, fiscal relief, and legal protection, to enable the media fulfil its democratic mandate effectively.
He made the call in his opening address at the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC), which opened in Abuja on Tuesday and was declared open by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The annual event, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” brought together top editors, media executives, policymakers, and development partners to discuss the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the media’s role in fostering unity.
“When the Press Thrives, Democracy Breathes”
Anaba emphasised that democracy cannot flourish without a free and economically viable press.
“When the press thrives, democracy breathes. When it is stifled, democracy suffocates,” he said. “Freedom of the press must go hand in hand with sustainability and protection.”
He called on the Tinubu administration to implement targeted fiscal incentives — including temporary corporate tax relief, VAT exemption on media tools, advertising tax credits, and access to affordable financing through institutions such as the Bank of Industry.
“Without economic sustainability, our constitutional and social responsibilities become ineffectual,” he stressed.
Editors as Custodians of Truth and Unity
Reflecting on the conference theme, the NGE President said Nigeria’s democracy, though resilient, was being tested by insecurity, economic hardship, misinformation, and declining public trust.
“In such times, the role of editors becomes even more critical,” he said. “Our pen must never become an instrument of division or hate, but a tool for healing and bridge-building.”
He reminded editors of their duty as “custodians of information and interpreters of events,” whose editorial decisions directly influence public opinion, national unity, and democratic accountability.
Media Freedom and Legal Protection
Mr. Anaba reiterated the Guild’s call for the repeal of laws that inhibit press freedom, including sections of existing legislation that expose journalists to arbitrary arrests and misuse of cybercrime laws.
He proposed the creation of a Media Freedom and Safety Charter — to be endorsed by the Presidency, Legislature, Judiciary, and NGE — to ensure journalists can work without fear or interference.
“We have already presented proposals to the Minister of Information, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Constitution Review Committee,” he noted.
Strengthening the Fourth Estate
Reaffirming the constitutional role of the media as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, Anaba said the Nigerian press remains a development partner, not an adversary of government.
“We appeal to the government at all levels to see the media as partners in progress, not opponents,” he urged. “Constructive criticism is essential to progress; it is not an act of hostility.”
He also called attention to the need for balanced reporting that includes rural and conflict-affected communities, noting that development stories should not remain urban-centred.
Honouring the Pioneers
The NGE President paid glowing tribute to the Guild’s past leaders and pioneers who shaped Nigeria’s media history — including Malam Baba Dantiye, who initiated the first Editors’ Conference in 2004, and industry icons such as Uncle Sam Amuka, Aremo Segun Osoba, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Malam Kabiru Yusuf, and Dr. John Momoh.
“What began as a modest idea in Ada, Osun State, has grown into a national institution — a platform for reflection, reform, and renewal,” he said.
A Call to Recommitment
Concluding his remarks, Anaba urged editors to use the conference as a platform for self-examination and innovation.
“Let our deliberations generate practical ideas that rebuild trust, guide policy, and fortify our democracy,” he said. “Together, let us wield the power of words responsibly, truthfully, and in service of our great nation.”
The four-day conference continues in Abuja with panel discussions on electoral integrity, media business sustainability, digital disruption, and press freedom.
TINUBU TO EDITORS: LET TRUTH LEAD, LET VERIFICATION GUIDE
President urges journalists to rebuild trust, strengthen democracy through responsible reporting
Abuja, November 12, 2025 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday challenged Nigerian editors to uphold the principles of truth, balance, and professionalism, declaring that “verification must be your anchor; balance your principle; and professionalism your guide.”
He made the call while opening the 2025 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) at the State House, Abuja, where he praised the media’s historic role in defending democracy and national unity.
“Journalism in Nigeria has never been just a profession,” Tinubu said. “It has been an instrument of national awakening — from the fight against colonialism to the struggle for democracy.”
The President paid tribute to journalists who braved persecution during military rule, describing them as “the conscience of our democracy.” But he warned that freedom without responsibility could easily become destructive.
‘You Shape National Thinking’
Tinubu reminded editors that they play a defining role in how Nigerians perceive their country.
“You shape narratives and influence public understanding,” he said. “Criticism should be informed and constructive. Cynicism that breeds mistrust weakens our national fabric.”
He urged the media to choose “clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair.”
Age of Misinformation
The President expressed concern about the rise of fake news and social media distortion, noting that editors must act as the nation’s gatekeepers.
“In this era where falsehood travels faster than truth, the editorial function is more important than ever,” Tinubu said. “Let truth be your compass and fairness your map.”
Reform with Responsibility
On the economy, he acknowledged that government reforms have been tough but necessary.
“We are stabilising the economy and rebuilding investor confidence,” Tinubu said. “Our goal is to ensure growth translates into better lives for Nigerians.”
He added that nation-building requires trust and cooperation among government, the private sector, civil society, and the media.
‘Your Work Matters’
Tinubu closed with a direct appeal:
“The tone you set, the standards you uphold, and the courage you display will help shape Nigeria’s journey,” he said. “Let’s tell stories that build our nation.”
The two-day NGE Conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” continues in Abuja with discussions on electoral integrity, media credibility, and the future of journalism in the digital age.
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