The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and promoting fact-based journalism as the world marks World News Day.
In a statement jointly signed by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuohe Ukeh, the Guild emphasised the vital role of journalism in upholding democratic values and empowering citizens with accurate information.
The NGE pledged to continue defending press freedom and promoting high standards of editorial leadership.
It reads in part: “As a body, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting high standards of editorial leadership and protecting press freedom,” the Guild said.
“We salute journalists in Nigeria and worldwide who work tirelessly to bring us the truth as we recommit to our mission of promoting quality journalism and protecting the rights of journalists to operate freely, ” the statement said.
The Guild alao expressed concern over growing attempts to suppress press freedom and freedom of expression in Nigeria, vowing to resist any effort to harass or intimidate journalists.
”We will always stand firm to defend the rights of journalists, promote high ethical standard in our noble profession, and resist any move, in whatever means, to harass and intimate journalists as well as impede journalism,” the statement said.
The NGE further emphasised that fact-based journalism is the foundation of a healthy democracy, enabling citizens to make informed decisions.
The Guild urged journalists to shun fake news, misinformation, and propaganda, upholding accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and facts in their work.
The NGE’s statement highlighted the importance of a free press in a democratic society.
By promoting fact-based journalism and defending press freedom, the Guild aimed to ensure that citizens have access to accurate information, enabling them to make informed decisions.
