By Queen Kunde
Former Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), Mr. Femi Soneye, has urged the Federal Government to introduce tax incentives and import duty waivers to strengthen the Nigerian media industry.
Soneye made the call in Abuja on Tuesday after receiving the NUJ FCT Excellence in Corporate Communications Award, conferred on him by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council.
Highlighting the critical role of the press in national development, he noted that while Nigeria boasts one of the most vibrant media landscapes in Africa, the industry continues to face severe financial, legal, political, and technological challenges.
“The government can play a supportive role by granting tax incentives or relief on import duties for newsprint, broadcast equipment, and digital infrastructure,” Soneye said.
He further proposed the creation of an independent media development fund to support investigative journalism, community radio, and newsroom innovation similar to models successfully implemented in South Africa, the United States, and Canada.
The NUJ FCT Council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, praised Soneye’s longstanding contributions to journalism and corporate communications. She described him as “a consummate professional” who has consistently supported the union and championed journalists’ welfare and ethical standards.
“You have always stood with journalists, not only as a media owner but as a practitioner who understands our struggles,” Ike said.
The award, she added, recognizes Soneye’s impact in promoting balanced reporting, professional excellence, and sustainable media growth in Nigeria.
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