Femi Soneye (L), former NNPC spokesperson, receiving an award of excellence from Grace Ike, chairperson of the NUJ FCT chapter
Femi Soneye, former chief corporate communications officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, has asked the federal government to grant the Nigerian media tax breaks and waive import duties on vital equipment.
Soneye spoke in Abuja 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.
He 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,” he said.
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“The government can support by granting tax incentives or relief on import duties for newsprint, broadcast equipment, and digital infrastructure.”
The ex-NNPC spokesperson 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.
Grace Ike, NUJ FCT chairperson, commended Soneye as an accomplished professional who has excelled with skills and distinction in the communications industry.
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Ike praised Soneye for supporting the union and promoting the interests of journalists in Abuja and across the country.
“You have always stood with journalists, not only as a media owner but also as a practitioner who understands our struggles,” she said.
“Your advocacy for welfare, training, and ethical reporting has set you apart as an icon in this profession.”
Soneye resigned as NNPC spokesperson in June after serving for 20 months.
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