The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) is currently hosting its highly anticipated National Biennial Convention in Owerri, Imo State. The two-day event, which commenced today, is shaping up to be an exciting gathering of prominent figures from the media industry and distinguished guests from across the nation.
Among the dignitaries expected to grace the occasion are His Excellency Kashim Shettima, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Governor Hope Uzodinma, the executive governor of Imo State. Dr. Tony Onyima, former Editor and former MD/ CEO of The Sun Newspapers, is the Chairman of the Convention, while the former two- term governor of Ogun state,His Excellency, Aremo Segun Osoba is the “father of the day.”
President of NGE, Mr. Mustapha Isah, who delivered the welcome address at the opening ceremony event held at Rockview Hotel in Owerri, highlighted the convention’s theme as “Post-2023 Elections: Promoting Professionalism for Enhancement of Democracy and Good Governance.”
Mr. Isah expressed his confidence in the keynote speaker, Dr. Chido Nwakanma, from the School of Media and Communication, Pan Atlantic University, Lagos, emphasizing his expertise in assessing the media’s performance during the 2023 general elections.
The President also stressed the crucial role of the media in holding elected officials accountable for their campaign promises and ensuring good governance. He lamented the challenges faced by the Nigerian media, such as the high cost of newsprint and broadcast equipment, as well as the economic downturn affecting media revenue from advertisements. Mr. Isah raised concerns about the impact of online media and expressed disappointment in the lack of government intervention to support the struggling media industry.
Undeterred by these challenges, Mr. Isah reassured his colleagues that the media would persevere and continue to fulfill its watchdog role. He called for innovation and the adoption of new survival strategies, particularly through embracing media convergence to explore diverse revenue sources.
Furthermore, Mr. Isah highlighted the recent inauguration of the National Media Complaints Commission by the Nigerian Press Organisation. The commission, chaired by Mr. Emeka Izeze, a distinguished Fellow of the Guild, aims to address concerns raised by government officials regarding media regulation, which some have proposed through unfavorable legislation.
The ongoing National Biennial Convention of the Nigerian Guild of Editors in Owerri promises to provide a platform for critical discussions on the future of the media, the challenges it faces, and strategies to ensure its continued vitality in serving as a check on the government’s actions.
As the convention progresses, attendees eagerly await the insights of industry experts, the exchange of ideas among journalists, and the resolutions that will emerge to shape the future landscape of Nigerian media.It is also expected that the NGE will elect a new set of exco members to pilot its affairs for the next two years.
