The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has joined the global community to commemorate World News Day (WND), marked annually on September 28, underscoring the vital role of fact-based journalism in society.
In a statement signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the Guild reaffirmed its commitment to promoting high editorial standards and protecting press freedom in Nigeria.
“We salute journalists in Nigeria and across the world who work tirelessly to bring the truth to the public. As we celebrate World News Day, we recommit to our mission of promoting quality journalism and protecting the rights of journalists to operate freely,” the statement read.
The NGE expressed concern over growing attempts to suppress press freedom and freedom of expression in Nigeria, vowing to resist harassment and intimidation of journalists.
“We will always defend the rights of journalists, uphold ethical standards, and resist any move to impede journalism in any form,” the statement said.
The Guild urged journalists to shun fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda, and to uphold the core values of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and fact-based reporting.
It also called on government at all levels to stop using repressive laws, including the Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, to harass or intimidate journalists, and to respect the Freedom of Information Act by granting access to public information in line with the United Nations Universal Day for Access to Information.
The statement further urged Nigerians to support journalists who face challenges in their pursuit of truth.
“Fact-based journalism is the foundation of a healthy democracy. It provides citizens with accurate and reliable information to make informed decisions. Any attempt to gag the media puts democracy and freedom of expression at risk,” the Guild said.
The NGE congratulated Nigerians and journalists on the occasion of World News Day.
