Dare Babalola
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has urged the Federal Government to find a lasting solution to the challenges confronting the nation, particularly in the areas of economy, insecurity, education, governance, and the media industry.
This was contained in a communiqué issued by Eze Anaba and Onuoha Ukeh, the guild’s President and General Secretary respectively.
According to the association, which said the decision was made after its Standing Committee Meeting in Owerri, Imo State, less privileged Nigerians are suffering the impact of the reforms of the government.
The Guild also called for a holistic approach to addressing insecurity, including enhanced intelligence gathering, community policing, and strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders.
The communique read, “The NGE noted the recent major breakthrough in the ongoing war against terrorism, including the arrest of leaders of two militant groups on Nigeria’s most wanted list, the heads of Ansaru, an al-Qaida-linked group, and Mahmuda.”
It however emphasised the need for sustained efforts to address insecurity and restore confidence in farmers to return to producing food.
Also, the group pointed out that the education sector in the country is in shambles, calling on governments at all levels to ensure that the sector is rescued.
They called for more funding, infrastructure renewal, and welfare for educators.
The Guild said, “Education is essential for economic growth and development, fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.”
The NGE also called on governments at all levels to be more committed and transparent in addressing the needs of citizens, especially the rural populace.
Speaking on the state of the media in the country, the Guild condemned growing hostilities against media organizations and professionals by some security agencies and non-state actors, calling on governments to partner with the media to deepen and protect democracy.
The editors warned against attempts to weaken the media, stating that “a weak media may fail to hold those in power accountable, limit access to information, and create a disconnect between the public and reality.”
The Guild thanked the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his efforts at delivering the dividends of democracy to his people and urged him to continue partnering with the media towards nation-building and promotion of peace and unity.
