The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has joined the global community in commemorating World News Day, stressing the importance of fact-based journalism as the bedrock of a healthy democracy.
The NGE, in a statement issued on Saturday by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuohe Ukeh, reaffirmed commitment to promoting high editorial standards, protecting press freedom, and defending the rights of journalists to work without intimidation.
The editors stated: “As we celebrate World News Day, we note the challenges journalism faces in Nigeria, particularly the growing attempts to suppress press freedom and freedom of expression.
“We will always stand firm to defend the rights of journalists, promote high ethical standards in our noble profession, and resist any move to harass and intimidate journalists or impede journalism.”
The editors called on journalists across the country to shun fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda, while upholding the principles of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and truth in their reportage.
The NGE also urged government at all levels to stop using repressive laws, including the Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention, etc.) Act, to intimidate journalists.
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It further called for strict compliance with the Freedom of Information Act by granting journalists unrestricted access to public information, in line with the United Nations’ Universal Day for Access to Information.
The editors added: “Fact-based journalism provides citizens with accurate and reliable information, enabling them to make informed decisions.
“Any success in gagging the media would jeopardize democracy and freedom of expression.”
The Guild congratulated Nigerian journalists and the public on the occasion of World News Day, urging all Nigerians to “choose truth, facts, and journalism” as a way of strengthening democratic governance.
The World News Day, marked on September 28, is an international initiative aimed at highlighting the value of fact-based journalism and its role in empowering citizens.
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