The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) has raised the alarm that the present economic realities in the country have put the media in distress.

The Guild also called for the repeal of laws that inhibit press freedom. The President of the NGE, Mr Eze Anaba, stated this in his welcome address at the All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) with the theme “Democracy, Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors”, held at the State House Conference Hall, Abuja.

He lamented that the economic situation in the country has forced some media houses to shut down, while some that struggle to operate cannot pay workers’ salaries.

This, he said, has contributed to the increase in unemployment, as it sends the workers in such media houses to the labour market. He solicited legislative and executive assistance to make the media viable, as well as corporate tax relief for about ten years.

The NGE boss also called for tax exemption, the establishment of low-interest loans for the media, and a digital transformation and innovation fund.

Anaba further proposed a Media Freedom and Safety Charter to protect journalists from the hostile environment. (VANGUARD)