By JKNewsMedia
IN THE wake of the three-day All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has urged the federal government to provide financial relief through subsidies or tax reductions to support media sustainability.
The Guild highlighted the immediate economic strain from recent subsidy cuts and currency volatility, stressing these reforms’ impact on media viability and the broader economy.
In a communique signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the editors emphasized that while they acknowledge the potential long-term benefits of federal reforms, the short-term economic effects on all sectors, particularly the media, are proving unsustainable.
The Guild called for targeted relief to ease the burden on citizens and businesses alike.
To promote revenue growth in the media, the Guild advocated exploring alternative revenue models beyond traditional advertising, urging media owners to embrace digital platforms, invest in high-quality journalism, and offer premium content to remain financially viable.
They also discussed the rising threats against journalists, calling for stricter enforcement of laws protecting journalists and urging media houses to implement safety training for staff, especially those covering sensitive assignments.
The Guild reaffirmed the need for ethical journalism as a foundation of public trust, urging media proprietors to uphold high standards of professionalism to counteract external pressures that threaten press freedom.
They also recommended government policies to reduce operational costs, such as lowering tariffs on essential media equipment, creating a more favorable environment for the industry.
The conference underscored digital transformation, with editors advocating investment in multimedia content and digital skills like data journalism to keep pace with Nigeria’s increasingly digital audience.
The NGE extended gratitude to Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, the state executive council, and local traditional leaders for their support and hospitality during the event.
The conference, attended by over 70 journalists, media executives, scholars, and international participants from 24 countries, tackled key issues affecting journalism’s sustainability and the role of tech platforms in shaping the industry’s future.
