Standard Newspaper Editorial On Plight Of New Nigerian Newspapers Staff

The continued neglect of former staff of the New Nigerian Newspapers (NNN) by the Northern States Governors’ Forum is not only a grave injustice but an indictment of northern Nigeria’s poor commitment to media ownership and press freedom.

The tragic reality that at least 106 of New Nigerian’s former employees have died while awaiting payment of their entitlements is a damning testament to the disregard with which the region treats its media professionals – individuals who dedicated their lives to the service of truth and information.

For over 15 years, these beneficiaries have been trapped in a cycle of unfulfilled promises, bureaucratic delays and legal battles, all while struggling to survive in an economy that offers them no respite. Even after a painstaking out-of-court settlement was reached on November 27, 2024, the northern governors continue to delay the payment of entitlements, prolonging the suffering of over 800 former staff members and their families. This is not only a breach of trust but a cruel demonstration of indifference to the plight of those who played a key role in shaping northern Nigeria’s media landscape.

The New Nigerian Newspapers, once a flagship of journalism in the region, was founded to give northern Nigeria a voice in the national and international media space. Yet, the same region that once took pride in its own newspaper now treats its former workers as disposable. This lack of commitment to sustaining media institutions is one of the reasons northern Nigeria lags behind in media ownership today. While other regions of the country have continued to build and strengthen their media houses, northern Nigeria has allowed its flagship newspaper to collapse, and now it cannot even honour its obligations to those who served it faithfully.

Sadly, even though the Northern Governors’ Forum, under the leadership of Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, has the power to end this suffering, it has continued to drag its feet. If these governors can allocate resources for their political ambitions, luxurious lifestyles and an endless list of aides, why is it so difficult to pay the rightful entitlements of media workers who have given their all to the region?

It is worthy of note that the Secretary to the Kaduna State Government has reportedly shown some level of concern, engaging with relevant stakeholders to address the issue. While this is commendable, it is not enough. The governors must take immediate and decisive action. The ongoing economic hardship in the country means these former NNN staff and their families are facing extreme difficulties, with many unable to afford basic necessities – including food to break their fast during Ramadan. How many more must die before justice is done?

Therefore, the northern governors must honour their obligations and pay these entitlements without further delay. Anything short of this is not only an injustice but a stain on the legacy of governance in northern Nigeria. If the region is serious about reclaiming its lost media influence, it must start by respecting and valuing those who built the foundation of its journalism in the first place.