By JKNewsMedia
FACT-BASED journalism received a renewed defence as the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) joined the international community in marking World News Day, observed globally on 28 September to highlight the central role of accurate reporting in society.
In a statement signed by President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Onuohe Ukeh, the Guild restated its commitment to high editorial standards, media independence, and the protection of journalists’ rights to operate without fear of harassment.
The statement, issued on 27 September 2025, emphasised that journalists in Nigeria and across the world continue to work under increasing pressure, even as they remain resolute in their duty to provide truthful and reliable information.
The Guild noted with concern that journalism in Nigeria faces persistent challenges, particularly attempts to suppress press freedom and restrict freedom of expression.
According to the statement, the body pledged to defend the rights of media professionals, promote ethical conduct in the profession, and resist every form of intimidation or undue interference aimed at silencing journalists.
The Guild then called on journalists to avoid fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda, urging practitioners instead to uphold the fundamental canons of journalism such as accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and factual reporting.
The statement further appealed to government authorities at all levels to desist from using repressive laws, including the Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention, etc.) Act, as tools to intimidate or harass journalists in the line of duty.
It also reminded public institutions of their responsibility to comply with the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act by ensuring free access to information requested by journalists, in line with the United Nations’ Universal Day for Access to Information.
Reiterating the importance of truth and transparency, the Guild urged Nigerians to recognise fact-based journalism as the bedrock of a healthy democracy.
It stressed that reliable information enables citizens to make informed choices and strengthens democratic governance.
The Guild further encouraged citizens to support journalists who face difficulties in the pursuit of truth, warning that any successful attempt to gag the press would endanger both democracy and the constitutional right to freedom of expression.
The statement concluded with a message of solidarity to all Nigerians and members of the press, wishing them a happy and reflective World News Day while stressing the Guild’s unwavering stance in defence of journalism and democratic values.
