Editors Urge Government To Mitigate Fuel Subsidy, Exchange Rate Impacts On Economy
RISING from a three-day All Nigerian Conference of Editors held in Yenagoa, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has issued a pressing call for the Nigerian government to address the adverse effects of fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate volatility on the nation’s economy. The appeal, aimed at providing relief to struggling businesses and citizens, was outlined in a communique signed by NGE President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren.
The Guild, which represents the country’s editors and media executives, emphasised the need for immediate relief measures, such as targeted subsidies or tax breaks, particularly to aid the media sector, which has been heavily impacted by rising operational costs. While acknowledging the potential long-term benefits of the federal government’s economic reforms, the Guild stressed the urgent need for short-term support to ensure economic stability.
The NGE underscored the current strain on media organisations, noting that the rising costs jeopardise the sustainability and quality of journalism. The Guild encouraged media houses to explore new revenue models, advocating for investment in quality journalism, digital platforms, and premium content. These strategies, the Guild suggested, could help media organisations diversify income sources beyond traditional advertising.
In addition, the Guild urged the government to reduce tariffs on essential media equipment to create a more media-friendly environment. The Guild also recommended enhanced digital skills training for journalists, covering areas like data journalism and multimedia production, as Nigerian audiences become increasingly digital.
Concerns over the rising harassment and violence against journalists were prominent at the conference. The NGE called for the enforcement of journalist protection laws and encouraged media houses to provide safety training, particularly for journalists reporting on sensitive issues.
The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to ethical journalism, stressing that upholding high standards is essential to maintaining public trust and safeguarding press freedom. It encouraged media proprietors to sustain these standards amid growing pressures.
The ANEC discussed outcomes from the 2023 “Big Tech and Journalism” conference in Johannesburg, which explored fair compensation for media through regulatory frameworks. Participants adopted the “Principles for Fair Compensation,” a universal guide to help address media sustainability issues in relation to Big Tech’s influence. The NGE expressed hope that these principles would be instrumental in shaping policies for media sustainability in Nigeria.
Additionally, the Guild voiced concerns about restrictive media laws affecting online platforms in Nigeria. It resolved to compile a list of such laws to submit to the National Assembly, advocating for their amendment or repeal to support press freedom.
The NGE expressed gratitude to Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, the Bayelsa State Executive Council, and traditional leaders for their support in hosting the 20th All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC). The Guild noted that their contributions helped facilitate fruitful discussions on national issues and the future of media in Nigeria.
The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from Nigerian media leaders to uphold responsible journalism, contribute to economic growth, and defend democratic values.
