President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has promised to review tariffs affecting the Nigerian media industry. Saying the government will look into ways to support newspapers and broadcasters so they can effectively carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
The president made the pledge while hosting leaders of the Nigerian media at the State House Abuja on Friday.
The meeting brought together representatives of major media bodies. This includes the Nigerian Press Organisation, Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria, Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, Nigerian Guild of Editors, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists.
Addressing Tariffs Affecting the Media
During the discussion, media leaders urged the president to intervene in the rising import tariffs on newsprint and broadcasting equipment. Which they say are placing heavy financial pressure on media organisations across the country.
Responding to the concerns, President Tinubu assured the media executives that the government would review the issue and make necessary adjustments where required.
“If I missed that, I will go back to rectifying whatever was necessary,” the president said, referring to the concerns raised about tariffs affecting the industry.
Acknowledging Media Criticism
The president also acknowledged that the media had played an important role in holding his administration accountable. Saying he welcomed criticism as part of democratic governance.
Tinubu noted that his administration had inherited significant economic challenges but insisted that difficult policy decisions were necessary to stabilise the country’s economy.
He told the media executives that responsible leadership requires making tough decisions at the right time. Adding that his government had taken steps to steer Nigeria away from severe economic difficulties.
Call for National Collaboration
President Tinubu urged the media to continue playing its role in promoting transparency and accountabilit. While also encouraging development at all levels of government.
He also asked journalists and media organisations to demand accountability not just from the federal government but also from state and local government. Noting that recent reforms had increased the financial allocations available to them.
Media Leaders React
Speaking on behalf of the media organisations, Frank Aigbogun, publisher of BusinessDay and president of the Nigerian Press Organisation, commended the president for maintaining a longstanding relationship with the Nigerian press.
He also raised concerns about the growing influence of global technology companies using content produced by Nigerian media without compensation, urging the government to protect the industry and the jobs of journalists.
Also present at the meeting was veteran journalist and former governor Olusegun Osoba. Who praised the administration’s economic reforms and encouraged continued collaboration between the government and the media sector.
The meeting highlighted the need for stronger cooperation between government and the media. To support national development and strengthen democratic governance.
