The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate legal and fiscal reforms that will guarantee press freedom and ensure the sustainability of the Nigerian media industry.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 21st All Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC) held in Abuja, the President of the Guild, Mr. Eze Anaba, said the call became necessary as the Nigerian media continues to face mounting financial challenges and political pressures in carrying out its constitutional role.

In a statement delivered before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who declared the conference open, Mr. Anaba emphasised that journalism must be recognised “as a public good deserving of targeted fiscal incentives, legal protection, and developmental support — not for patronage, but to strengthen the foundations of our democracy.”

He said the conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” provides an opportunity for the media to reflect on its responsibilities in promoting transparency, unity, and democratic accountability.

The NGE President paid tribute to the founders and past leaders of the Guild, including Malam Baba Dantiye, who initiated the first ANEC in 2004 at Ada, Osun State. He also acknowledged media icons such as Uncle Sam Amuka, Aremo Segun Osoba, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Malam Kabiru Yusuf, and Dr. John Momoh for their outstanding contributions to media development in Nigeria.

Mr. Anaba outlined several policy recommendations aimed at supporting the struggling media sector. He called for a temporary corporate tax relief to be granted to media houses for a period of five to ten years to enable stability and sustainability in the industry.

He also urged the Federal Government to exempt essential media equipment and inputs from Value Added Tax (VAT) in recognition of the media’s social responsibility to the nation.

The NGE President further proposed that large corporations should be encouraged to advertise in verified Nigerian media outlets through tax incentives and credits that would redirect revenue to local journalism and strengthen investigative reporting.

He recommended the creation of a low-interest loan scheme to be facilitated by the Bank of Industry or the Development Bank of Nigeria, to help media organisations upgrade their facilities, expand their reach, and create more employment opportunities.

Also, Mr. Anaba advocated for the establishment of a Media Development Fund to support the digital transformation of Nigerian media, promote innovative online platforms, and enhance multimedia storytelling. He stressed that such a fund must be managed by an independent board to prevent political interference.

The Guild also demanded the repeal of laws that inhibit press freedom and proposed the creation of a Media Freedom and Safety Charter to be endorsed by the Presidency and upheld by all arms of government.

Mr. Anaba noted that journalists must be shielded from arbitrary arrests and the misuse of cybercrime laws, stressing that “when the press thrives, democracy breathes; when it is stifled, democracy suffocates.”

He further urged the media to prioritise balanced reporting that includes Nigeria’s rural and conflict-affected communities, to ensure inclusive national development.

Appealing to the President and other political leaders, Mr. Anaba described the media as a “constructive partner in the pursuit of national progress,” adding that editors must continue to act as credible watchdogs and promoters of national cohesion.

“The pen must never become an instrument of division or hate, but a tool for healing and bridge-building,” he said.

The four-day conference, which continues until November 14, 2025, has brought together editors, government officials, and media executives to discuss issues of governance, media independence, and the future of journalism in Nigeria.