President Bola Tinubu, state governors, ministers, and top dignitaries are expected to attend the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC), which begins today in Abuja.
Organised by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the two-day event will take place at the State House Conference Centre, Aso Villa, with President Tinubu officially declaring the conference open.
According to a statement by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, more than 500 editors, alongside media executives, diplomats, academics, and policymakers, are participating in the gathering.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, and Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of Arise News and ThisDay Newspapers, will chair separate sessions, while Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State will deliver the keynote address.
Other governors expected include Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), and Abba Yusuf (Kano).
Notable media leaders such as Chief Segun Osoba, Onyema Ugochukwu, Femi Adesina, and Garba Shehu will also be in attendance, alongside Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji of NEITI and Ukpe Anietie, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Senate President.
Focus on Democracy and National Cohesion
This year’s theme, “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” explores how journalists can strengthen democratic institutions and foster unity.
A sub-theme, “Electoral Integrity and Trust Deficit: What Nigerians Expect in 2027,” will guide discussions around public confidence in upcoming elections.
Renowned legal expert Prof. Awa Kalu (SAN) will speak on “Election Disputes and Judicial Integrity: Navigating the Thin Line Between Law and Politics.”
Following him, Prof. Sheriff Ibrahim of the University of Abuja will present a paper on “State of the Nation: Imperative of Economic and Political Reforms in a Challenged Nation.”
Day Two Highlights
The second day, scheduled for November 13 at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Centre, will feature Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd.), former Chief of Defence Staff, speaking on “Media, Terrorism, and National Security.”
Prof. Abiodun Adeniyi of Baze University will follow with a session on “The Evolving Face of Journalism: Battling Misinformation, AI Disruption, and Credibility Gaps.”
An executive session will also be held, allowing editors to engage with government officials, political leaders, and business executives.
Corporate partners for the event include Air Peace, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
