President Tinubu urges Nigerian editors to report boldly, criticise fairly, and partner with government in building a stronger, united nation
President Tinubu has called on Nigerian media practitioners to report boldly while contributing constructively to national development.
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Speaking at the 21st Nigerian Guild of Editors Annual Conference 2025 in Abuja, he emphasised that editors have a responsibility to uphold democracy and foster national cohesion.
Addressing the theme, Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: Role of Editors, the President praised the Guild for shaping public discourse responsibly and encouraged journalists to verify information, maintain balance, and exercise professional judgement amid the rapid spread of misinformation.
“Report boldly, but do so truthfully. Critique government policy, but do so with knowledge and fairness. Your aim must never be to tear down, but to help build a better society,” President Tinubu stated.
The President also assured the Guild that his administration would consider media requests for fiscal incentives, tax relief, and legal protections to ensure the sustainability and vibrancy of the sector.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to press freedom, noting that no media house has been threatened or gagged under his leadership.
Minister of Information Mohammed Idris hailed President Tinubu for attending the conference in person — a historic first — and reiterated that the current administration has created an enabling environment for free media operations.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State urged editors to take responsibility for shaping national perception, particularly ahead of the 2027 elections.
He stressed that editorial choices can influence electoral integrity, public trust, and democratic resilience.
Eze Anaba, President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, appealed for government support through tax relief, VAT exemptions, access to affordable financing, and the establishment of a Media Development Fund to promote digital innovation in newsrooms.
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President Tinubu’s address and the Guild’s discussions underline the critical role of journalism as both a watchdog and a partner in nation-building, highlighting the need for constructive reporting that informs, protects, and unites Nigeria.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
