The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting high standards of editorial leadership and protecting press freedom.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by the president and general secretary of the guild, Eze Anaba and Onuohe Ukeh, respectively.

The guild stated this while commemorating World News Day, which is annually held on September 28.

The guild advocated for a renewed call to uphold fact-based journalism and defend press freedom.

It saluted Nigerian and international journalists who, despite daunting challenges, continue to work tirelessly to provide truthful and accurate information to the public.

“As we celebrate World News Day, we note the challenges journalism as a profession faces in Nigeria, most especially the growing attempt to suppress press freedom and freedom of expression.

“We will always stand firm to defend the rights of journalists, promote high ethical standards in our noble profession, and resist any move, by whatever means, to harass and intimidate journalists as well as impede journalism,” the guild stated.

The NGE urged journalists to shun fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda, while upholding the core principles of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and truth.

It also called on the government at all levels to desist from using repressive laws, including the Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, to harass media professionals.

“We urge the government to always respect the Freedom of Information Act by freely providing journalists with any requested information and, therefore, aligning itself with the United Nations Universal Day for Access to Information.

“We urge Nigerians to choose truth, facts, and journalism, bearing in mind  that fact-based journalism is the foundation of a healthy democracy.

“Fact-based journalism provides citizens with accurate and reliable information, enabling them to make informed decisions,” the guild said.

(NAN)