The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), a prominent professional media organization, convened its 2025 biennial conference in Enugu State, focusing on the critical intersection of national security, diversity, and the media’s role. The conference theme, “Nation’s Security Future: Harnessing Diversity for Peace/Stability and the Media’s Role,” underscored the pressing need for a collaborative approach involving government, security agencies, and the media to address the complex security challenges facing Nigeria. The gathering, which featured addresses from prominent figures including Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, Channels Television Chairman Dr. John Momoh, and former Ogun State Governor Chief Segun Osoba, culminated in a communiqué outlining key resolutions and a newly elected leadership team for the NGE. The communiqué emphasized the shared responsibility of government and citizens in upholding national security, particularly highlighting the media’s pivotal role in fostering peace, inclusivity, and justice.
The NGE’s communiqué stressed the imperative of responsible journalism practices, urging media professionals to prioritize national stability over sensationalism and prioritize peace-building over simply breaking the news. The communiqué called for closer cooperation between security agencies and the media, emphasizing the need for shared intelligence, proactive responses to security threats, and a unified front in promoting peace and stability. The NGE advocated for media practices that embrace diversity and ensure balanced representation, cautioning against biased reporting and the potential dangers of one-sided narratives. Recognizing the power of communication, the Guild urged media organizations to facilitate dialogue and carefully consider the implications of their reporting, underscoring the potential for both positive and negative consequences.
A central theme within the communiqué was the NGE’s call for the government to view media professionals not as adversaries but as patriotic citizens deeply invested in the nation’s well-being. This plea for mutual respect and understanding aimed to bridge the gap between government and the media, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative relationship in tackling security challenges. The NGE urged the government to provide adequate resources and modern weaponry to the military and other security agencies, emphasizing the need for robust intelligence gathering and proactive measures to address emerging threats. Furthermore, the communiqué called on the legislature to review existing laws that may impede media practice, ensuring that legal frameworks align with democratic principles and promote a free and vibrant press.
Acknowledging the financial challenges facing the media landscape, the NGE proposed the establishment of a Media Trust Fund in collaboration with the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN). This initiative aims to provide financial support to media organizations, bolstering their capacity to fulfill their vital role in informing the public and holding power accountable. The NGE also committed to upholding its core principles – preserving journalistic standards, adhering to the code of ethics, and defending the rights of its members – as guiding principles for its newly elected leadership. The conference concluded with the election of a new set of officers, tasked with carrying out the NGE’s mission and driving its strategic priorities.
The election of the new NGE leadership saw Eze Anaba assume the presidency, with Sabastine Abu as Deputy President. Regional representation was ensured with Sheddy Ozoene, Hamza Idris, and Kabir Garba taking on the roles of Vice Presidents for the East, North, and West, respectively. Onuoha Ukeh was elected General Secretary, Gabriel Akinadewo as Assistant Secretary, and Iyobosa Uwugiaren as Treasurer. Other elected officials included Charles Kalu as Social/Publicity Secretary and a slate of standing committee members representing each region: Rose Moses and Juliet Bumah, Olabisi Deji-Folutile for the West; Umoru Ibrahim and Paulyn Ugbodaga for the North; and Chinedu Max Egere and Ikpong Essien-Udom for the East. This diverse representation within the NGE leadership reflects the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and its pan-Nigerian focus.
Finally, the NGE expressed its gratitude to Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for his instrumental support in hosting the convention and for his broader commitment to development within the state. This recognition underscores the importance of collaboration between government and media organizations in promoting national development and addressing critical issues such as security. The convention served as a vital platform for dialogue, reflection, and strategic planning, setting the stage for the NGE’s continued work in promoting press freedom, upholding ethical journalism, and contributing to a more secure and stable Nigeria. The resolutions and the newly elected leadership are poised to guide the NGE’s efforts in the years ahead, navigating the challenges and opportunities of the evolving media landscape in Nigeria.
