Femi Soneye urges FG to support Nigerian Media with Tax Reliefs, Incentives

Former Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), Mr. Femi Soneye, has appealed to the Federal Government to provide targeted incentives to the Nigerian media, including tax reliefs and waivers on import duties for essential tools.

Soneye made the call in Abuja on Tuesday after receiving the NUJ FCT Excellence in Corporate Communications Award, presented to him by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council.

In his remarks, he stressed that despite being one of the most vibrant in Africa, the Nigerian media continues to face systemic challenges that weaken its effectiveness.

“The Nigerian media remains one of the most vibrant in Africa, but it also faces systemic challenges, financial, political, legal, and technological, that weaken its effectiveness. 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 urged the Federal Government to create an independent media development fund to support investigative journalism, community radio, and newsroom innovation, citing examples from South Africa, the United States, and Canada.

The award recognized Soneye’s long-standing contributions to journalism and corporate communications, as well as his advocacy for an independent and sustainable media sector.

Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, who led the executive in presenting the award, described Soneye as a consummate professional who has excelled with tact and distinction in communications.

“You have always stood with journalists, not only as a media owner but also as a practitioner who understands our struggles. Your advocacy for welfare, training, and ethical reporting has set you apart as an icon in this profession,” she said.

She added that the Council recognized Soneye’s role in promoting balanced reporting and supporting journalists’ welfare.

Daily Watch Nigeria.