President Bola Tinubu has announced that his administration will consider granting tax relief and other incentives to Nigerian media organisations to strengthen press freedom and ensure the sustainability of journalism in the country.
The President made the pledge at the 21st Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Annual Conference (ANEC) 2025, held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: Role of Editors.”
In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu commended the Guild for its role in promoting democracy and national unity. He said the government would assess the Guild’s requests for media tax relief, fiscal incentives, and legal protection to enhance media operations nationwide.
“Journalism in Nigeria has always been more than a profession; it has been an instrument of national awakening. From the struggle against colonialism to the defence of democracy, the media has remained vital to nation-building,” Tinubu said.
The President urged editors to balance freedom with responsibility, stressing that misinformation spreads quickly in the digital age. “Verification must be your anchor; balance must be your principle, and professional judgment must be your guide,” he added.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described Tinubu’s attendance as historic — the first by a sitting President at the NGE conference. He reaffirmed that no media outlet had been gagged or shut down under Tinubu’s administration, reflecting a strong commitment to press freedom.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, speaking at the event, challenged editors to shape credible narratives ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that irresponsible reporting fuels distrust and polarisation.
NGE President Eze Anaba called on the government to support the media through corporate tax exemptions, VAT relief, and access to affordable financing. He also proposed a Media Development Fund to drive digital innovation and newsroom transformation.
