Former chief corporate communications officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Femi Soneye has asked the federal government to grant the Nigerian media tax breaks and waive import duties on vital equipment.
Speaking on Tuesday after the federal capital territory (FCT) chapter of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) honoured him with the excellence in corporate communications award, in Abuja, Soneye said despite being one of the most vigorous on the continent, Nigerian media still struggles with systemic challenges that weaken its cogency.
“The Nigerian media remains one of the most vibrant in Africa, but it also faces systemic challenges [such as] financial, political, legal, and technological challenges that weaken its effectiveness. The government can support by granting tax incentives or relief on import duties for newsprint, broadcast equipment, and digital infrastructure”, said Soneye.
He urged the federal government to create a standalone media development fund to bolster investigative reporting, local radio, and newsroom innovation, citing examples from South Africa, the United States, and Canada.
In her remarks, NUJ FCT chairperson, Grace Ike, commended Soneye as an accomplished professional who has excelled with skills and distinction in the communications industry.
Ike praised Soneye for supporting the union and promoting the interests of journalists in Abuja and across the country.
