GOMEP-NG Seeks Stronger FG Partnership on National Security, Media Policy Reforms
By Fact Harbour News
ABUJA – The Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG) has called for stronger collaboration with the Federal Government to promote responsible online journalism, strengthen national security, and advance media policy reforms capable of supporting the continued growth of Nigeria’s digital media ecosystem.
In a statement jointly signed by its National President, Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, and National Secretary, Clinton Uba, the Guild said the rapidly changing digital information landscape requires closer cooperation between government institutions, media organisations, technology stakeholders, and civil society to address emerging challenges while protecting the constitutional right to freedom of expression.
According to GOMEP-NG, online media platforms have become indispensable channels for news dissemination, civic engagement, public education, and democratic accountability. The Guild noted that as digital journalism continues to expand across Nigeria, there is a growing need for policies that encourage professionalism, innovation, and responsible reporting without undermining press freedom.
The Guild stressed that misinformation, disinformation, cybercrime, and the misuse of digital platforms have become significant concerns requiring coordinated responses from both the public and private sectors. It maintained that addressing these challenges would require sustained dialogue, policy consistency, and investment in digital literacy programmes capable of helping citizens identify and verify credible information.
GOMEP-NG also urged the Federal Government to involve recognised media organisations in the development and review of policies relating to digital communication, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data protection, and information management. According to the Guild, inclusive stakeholder engagement would result in more effective policies that balance national security with the rights and responsibilities of the media.
The organisation further advocated regular capacity-building programmes for journalists, editors, and digital publishers to improve professional standards, ethical reporting, fact-checking, investigative journalism, and the responsible use of emerging technologies in news production.
It also called for improved access to public information, encouraging government ministries, departments, and agencies to strengthen communication with the media through regular briefings and timely dissemination of verified information. The Guild said proactive public communication would help reduce speculation, improve transparency, and strengthen public confidence in government institutions.
Reaffirming its commitment to ethical journalism, GOMEP-NG pledged to continue promoting professionalism, accuracy, fairness, and accountability among its members. The Guild expressed confidence that a stronger partnership between the Federal Government and the media would enhance national security, promote democratic governance, encourage responsible journalism, and contribute to Nigeria’s social, political, and economic development in the digital age.