By Smart Emmanuel
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) is set to host its 20th annual conference from November 7 to 9, 2024, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, focusing on the country’s economy and security.
The event will see prominent figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima; Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Atiku Bagudu; Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris; and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, leading discussions.
Chairman and editor-in-chief of THISDAY/Arise Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, will chair the conference, which aims to provide in-depth analysis of the country’s economic and security challenges.
The event is expected to attract over 350 editors and media executives nationwide, highlighting the significance of these issues within the editorial community.
A key theme for this year’s conference is “Economic Growth and Development Strategies in a Resource-rich Country,” reflecting the government’s ongoing efforts to stabilize and develop Nigeria’s macroeconomic landscape.
Since taking office on May 29, 2023, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has implemented bold reforms, including the gradual removal of the petrol subsidy and unification of foreign exchange markets.
Government said the measures would alleviate inflationary pressures and support the most vulnerable citizens through temporary cash transfers, but Nigerians have continued to face significant economic challenges, including high poverty rate and limited job creation.
The conference will explore comprehensive policies and strategies needed to address both short-term and long-term economic issues.
Additionally, the NGE will emphasize the viability and sustainability of the media industry. Discussions will include strategies for media financing, opportunities and challenges in AI-generated storytelling, and the importance of fair compensation for intellectual property and content.
The annual conference, which began in 2004, will also feature the induction of 12 new editors, marking another milestone in the Guild’s efforts to foster a robust and sustainable media landscape in Nigeria.
