A Big Opportunity to Talk About Peace, Unity, and the Role of the Media in Nigeria
From June 26 to June 29, 2025, the beautiful city of Enugu will welcome some of the most respected and powerful voices in Nigerian journalism. These are the editors, media executives, and communication experts who help shape the news that millions of people in Nigeria read, watch, and listen to every day.
They are coming to Enugu for a very important event called the Biennial National Convention of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE). This is a major meeting that takes place once every two years, and this year’s theme is:
“Building a Secure and Cohesive Nigeria: The Role of Dialogue, Inclusion and the Media.”
This event is not only about the media it’s also about Nigeria’s future.
Nigeria is going through many challenges today. From insecurity and banditry to tribal and religious divisions, the country needs peace, unity, and strong leadership. One important tool that can help solve these problems is the media.
The media (radio, television, newspapers, and social media) can help promote peace, truth, and understanding. But when used wrongly, it can also spread fake news, hate speech, and cause fear. That is why the role of media editors is so important.
This convention gives Nigerian editors a chance to come together, talk about the country’s issues, share ideas, and create a better path forward using the power of their words.
The convention will bring together over 400 editors and media leaders from across Nigeria. Some of the big names expected to attend include:
- Sam Amuka-Pemu – Publisher of Vanguard newspaper
- Segun Osoba – Former Ogun State Governor and respected journalist
- Nduka Obaigbena – Publisher of This Day and Arise TV
- John Momoh – Chairman of Channels Television
- Onyema Ugochukwu – Former editor and media development expert
These men and women are leaders in Nigerian media. They’ve shaped how we understand politics, the economy, security, and everyday life in Nigeria.
Here are some of the key activities planned for the 4-day event:
Dialogue and Panel Discussions
Editors will hold serious discussions about how to:
- Use the media to fight insecurity and violence
- Promote peace among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups
- Handle sensitive stories with care and professionalism
- Protect freedom of speech while fighting misinformation
Workshops and Trainings
There will be training sessions for editors and younger journalists on:
- Investigative journalism
- Digital media and how to grow online news
- Ethical reporting and fact checking
- Safety tips for journalists in conflict zones
Elections
The Nigerian Guild of Editors will also hold elections to choose new leaders for the next two years. These leaders will guide the association and represent journalists nationwide.
Awards and Recognitions
Some journalists and editors will receive awards for outstanding reporting, media innovation, and contributions to national unity.
Why Enugu Was Chosen
Enugu, known as the “Coal City,” was chosen as the host because of its peaceful environment, strong media presence, and excellent hospitality. The city is also centrally located in the Southeast and has good infrastructure to host such a large gathering.
The Enugu State Government, under Governor Peter Mbah, has been promoting peace, youth development, and digital innovation. By hosting this event, the state shows it is ready to support press freedom and national development.
Messages Expected from the Convention
- The Media Must Be Responsible: Editors will discuss how to avoid publishing false or harmful news.
- Media Unity Is National Unity: The media must avoid causing tribal or religious division.
- Support for Young Journalists: The future of Nigerian media depends on training the next generation.
- Partnership with Government and Civil Society: Journalists and governments can work together to improve the country without losing press freedom.
What This Means for Nigerians
Even though this is a gathering of media professionals, the results will affect all Nigerians. Why?
Because the stories we read in newspapers, watch on TV, or hear on the radio shape how we think, vote, and react. If editors agree on better standards, better training, and more peace promoting reporting, then every Nigerian will benefit.
This is a time for healing, for honest conversations, and for using the media to move the country forward.
Conclusion
The 2025 Nigerian Guild of Editors Convention in Enugu is more than just a meeting. It is a national moment to rethink how the media can unite Nigeria, promote peace, and hold those in power accountable.
As Enugu welcomes these great minds, we hope their conversations will not end inside the hall but will spread across Nigeria through stronger journalism and a more united nation.
Let us watch closely and support this important gathering. Because when editors speak, the whole nation listens.
