President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Mr. Eze Anaba, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant tax reliefs, value-added tax (VAT) exemptions, and access to low-interest loans to support the sustainability of the Nigerian media industry.
Speaking at the opening of the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC 2025) held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, with the theme “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” Anaba stressed that the survival of the media as a business is vital to Nigeria’s democracy
He said; “the media industry is currently in distress, as many organisations can no longer pay salaries due to rising production costs.”
“Without economic sustainability, our constitutional and social responsibilities become ineffective. Therefore, we seek legislative and executive support to make our businesses viable alongside our public duties,” Anaba stated.
The NGE President proposed corporate tax relief for five to 10 years, VAT exemptions on essential media tools and equipment, and tax incentives to encourage large corporations to advertise in verified Nigerian outlets.
He further called for a low-interest loan scheme through the Bank of Industry or the Development Bank of Nigeria to enable media organisations upgrade their infrastructure and expand their reach.
Anaba also proposed the establishment of a Digital Transition and Innovation Fund to promote multimedia storytelling, data journalism, and digital transformation while safeguarding editorial independence.
On press freedom, Anaba appealed “for the repeal of laws that hinder media operations and the creation of a Media Freedom and Safety Charter to protect journalists from arbitrary arrests and misuse of legal provisions.”
He urged government to recognise journalism as a public good deserving of fiscal incentives and developmental support, noting that “a free and vibrant press remains essential to democratic survival.”
Reinforcing the conference theme, Anaba emphasised that editors play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, promoting national unity, and strengthening democracy.
He urged media practitioners to uphold truth, fairness, and patriotism in their work and to use their platforms as instruments of peace and progress.