The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to provide tax reliefs, VAT exemptions, and access to low-interest loans to strengthen the financial sustainability of Nigeria’s media industry.
President of the NGE, Eze Anaba, made the appeal during the opening of the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC 2025) at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja. The conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” brought together over 400 editors from across the country.
Anaba emphasised that the media’s economic viability is essential for the health of Nigeria’s democracy, noting that while the press is constitutionally recognised under Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution as the fourth estate, its ability to act as a watchdog depends on financial stability. He highlighted that many media houses struggle to pay salaries due to rising production costs.
To address these challenges, Anaba proposed several fiscal measures, including five to ten years of corporate tax relief, VAT exemptions on essential media equipment, and tax incentives for companies that advertise in verified Nigerian outlets. He also urged the federal government to establish a low-interest loan scheme through the Bank of Industry or Development Bank of Nigeria to enable media organisations to upgrade infrastructure, expand reach, and create jobs.
Anaba further suggested the creation of a Digital Transition and Innovation Fund to support multimedia storytelling and data journalism while safeguarding editorial independence. He clarified that these interventions are not a bribe but standard international practice, citing examples from countries like Canada, India, and South Africa.
On press freedom, the NGE President called for the repeal of restrictive laws and the establishment of a Media Freedom and Safety Charter endorsed by the Presidency and supported by the legislature and judiciary. He stressed that a thriving, responsible press is crucial for transparency, citizen engagement, and democratic governance.
Reinforcing the conference theme, Anaba noted that editors play a key role in shaping public opinion, fostering unity, and promoting national dialogue. He urged journalists to uphold ethical standards, balance, fairness, and patriotism while reaffirming the Guild’s commitment to professional development and the defence of press freedom.
He added, “When the press thrives, democracy breathes; when the press is stifled, governance suffers, and citizens remain uninformed. A free and vibrant media is indispensable to national progress.”
