Dr. Dili Ezughah, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council (NPC), has voiced deep concern over the exclusion of the agency from the national budget, citing significant ramifications for its operations.
Speaking during an oversight visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics, and Values to the council headquarters in Abuja, Dr. Ezughah bemoaned the adverse effects of the budgetary omission. He highlighted the hardships faced by NPC staff, including difficulties in meeting educational expenses for their children and wards.
Expressing gratitude to the committee members for their attention to the matter, Dr. Ezughah emphasized the urgent need for corrective action, particularly regarding the misclassification of the NPC as a professional body instead of a regulatory agency.
Dr. Ezughah provided insights into ongoing reforms within the council, notably the establishment of a marketing department aimed at enhancing internal revenue generation. Additionally, he unveiled plans for a forthcoming fact-checking app designed to combat misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms.
Committee Chairman, Mr. Fatoba Olusola, reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to reinstating the NPC in the national budget. He pledged comprehensive support to empower the council in fulfilling its statutory obligations, including potential amendments to relevant legislation to optimize its performance.
The exclusion of the Nigerian Press Council, alongside other professional associations, from the 2024 Appropriation Act underscores pressing concerns regarding adequate funding for regulatory bodies critical to safeguarding media integrity and promoting responsible journalism.
