Shettima, Diri, Ribadu to lead economic, security talks at 20th editors conference in Bayelsa

The 20th All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC), set to begin on Wednesday in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, will bring together high-profile leaders to address Nigeria’s pressing economic and security challenges.

With Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, Minister of Budget & Economic Planning Atiku Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Information Mohammed Idris, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) Dele Kelvin Oye among the prominent speakers, the conference is poised to stimulate vital conversations on Nigeria’s path to stability and growth.

In a statement issued by Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) President Eze Anaba and General Secretary Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the professional body of editors emphasized that the event will feature distinguished personalities, including Chairman and Editor-In-Chief of THISDAY/Arise Media Group Prince Nduka Obaigbena as the conference chair.

Media veterans like former Ogun State Governor Aremo Segun Osoba, Vanguard Publisher Uncle Sam Amuka, BusinessDay Publisher Frank Aigbogun, and LEADERSHIP Newspaper’s Azu Ishiekwene will delve into topics around media financing, the rise of AI in journalism, and other global trends shaping the industry.

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This year’s theme, “Economic Growth and Development Strategies in Resource-Rich Countries,” reflects Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to manage macroeconomic reforms introduced by the current administration.

Since assuming office in May 2023, the government has implemented significant reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates to create a more market-driven currency valuation.

Temporary cash transfers are being provided to cushion the effects of inflation on over 15 million vulnerable households, with the Central Bank of Nigeria working to stabilize prices.

Yet, despite these reforms, challenges persist. With a poverty rate at nearly 40% and 88 million Nigerians living below the poverty line, economic instability remains a critical issue.

The NGE noted that the conference would address the urgent need for comprehensive policies targeting long-term growth and immediate economic relief, amid escalating exchange rates, inflation, and rising energy costs.

Media sustainability will also be a focal point, as editors and publishers explore mechanisms for supporting the industry’s financial viability.

Key issues include securing fair compensation for content use and adapting revenue models to evolving market demands, which are critical to ensuring a free and sustainable press.

The three-day conference, expected to draw over 350 editors and media executives nationwide, will feature presentations from various public and private institutions, as well as NGOs, adding depth to the discussions.

ANEC, launched in 2004, has become a cornerstone for dialogue on national issues, with this year’s edition aiming to foster collaboration among Nigeria’s leaders, experts, and media stakeholders for the country’s economic and journalistic future.

The event will also include the induction of 12 new editors into the NGE, further strengthening the guild’s mission to advance responsible journalism and support media professionals across the nation.