The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has announced that its 2024 Annual Conference will take place in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, from November 7 to 9, 2024. In a statement released on Monday by NGE President, Mr. Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the event will be chaired by Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman/Editor-In-Chief of THISDAY/Arise Media Group. The conference will be officially opened by Nigeria’s Vice President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State will serve as the Chief Host, while Chief Segun Osoba, former Governor of Ogun State, and Uncle Sam Amuka, Founder of Vanguard Media Group, will be the Fathers of the Day.
The NGE highlighted that the current government, which took office in May 2023, has implemented significant reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange markets. However, despite these efforts, the country continues to face significant economic challenges, including inflation, unemployment, and high poverty rates. Nigeria ranks seventh lowest in the global human capital index, and many citizens are leaving the country in search of better opportunities. The poverty rate in the country is put at about 40 % – with an estimated 88 million Nigerians living below the poverty line.
The NGE emphasised the need for a comprehensive set of policies to address both short-term and long-term economic issues. The conference will also focus on the sustainability of the media industry, with stakeholders encouraged to develop strategies to ensure fair compensation for intellectual property and diverse revenue streams.
Key experts from sectors such as energy, security, finance, Big Tech and media have been invited to provide insights and propose solutions to these pressing challenges. The NGE aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among industry leaders to promote economic growth and media sustainability.
