According to Channels TV, President Bola Tinubu has promised to review and potentially eliminate tariffs on essential media materials such as newsprint, broadcast equipment, and chemicals. During a meeting with the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO), the President described the media as an “indispensable partner” in the nation’s democratic journey.
The media industry has been grappling with high operational costs and what has been termed “digital cannibalisation” by global Big Tech firms. President Tinubu assured industry leaders that the government would support an evidence-led campaign to ensure fair revenue sharing from digital platforms that profit from local news content.
The proposed tariff relief would see the current 5 to 10 percent duties on imported newsprint and broadcasting tools significantly reduced or removed. This move is aimed at preventing the collapse of traditional news outlets and protecting thousands of jobs within the information sector.
Premium Times noted the presence of “top media patrons like Nduka Obaigbena and John Momoh” at the briefing, while Vanguard reported that “the President is reviewing the tariff exemption list to include media items.”
Echotitbits take: This is a rare olive branch to the press. By addressing the economic survival of media houses, the government is likely hoping for a more favorable narrative, but the real impact will be seen in whether this relief translates to lower cover prices and better pay for journalists.
Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/03/15/tinubu-backs-media-fight-against-tech-giants-promises-tariff-relief/, March 17, 2026
Photo credit: Channels TV
