President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian editors to remain steadfast in promoting unity, truth, and professionalism in their reportage, stressing that the survival of the country’s democracy depends largely on responsible journalism and credible public discourse.
Speaking at the 2025 Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Conference, President Tinubu, in his welcome address on Wednesday, commended the Guild for “sustaining a tradition of reflection and professional engagement,” describing the conference theme — Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors — as both timely and essential in strengthening the nation’s democratic fabric.
“The theme you have chosen invites us to reflect on the state of our democracy and the way in which public discourse can either strengthen or weaken the bonds that hold our nation together,” Tinubu said. “This conversation is necessary as we continue to build institutions that are transparent, resilient, and trusted by our citizens.”
The President lauded Nigerian journalists for their historic role in nation-building, recalling how the media stood firm during the struggle for independence and the resistance against military dictatorship.
“Throughout our history, journalism in Nigeria has been more than a profession. It has been an instrument of national awakening,” he declared. “From early newspapers that challenged colonial injustice to the principled voices that kept hope alive during the dark days of the military dictatorship.”
Tinubu expressed appreciation to journalists who, despite intimidation, detention, and personal hardship, defended the public good.
“Many journalists endured intimidation, detention, and personal hardship in defence of the public good,” he said. “Their sacrifices are part of the foundation upon which our democracy rests today. We honour them not only in memory, but also by remaining committed to the values they upheld.”
The President urged editors to remain vigilant and responsible in their use of press freedom, emphasising that democracy cannot thrive without truthful, balanced, and constructive journalism.
“Freedom secured through struggle is not self-sustaining,” Tinubu warned. “A democracy is sustained not only by elections and laws, but also by the integrity of the public conversation. This is where your role becomes central and independent, as last man standing.”
Addressing the growing challenge of misinformation, the President noted that the rise of social media had turned every citizen into a potential publisher, amplifying the dangers of falsehoods and sensationalism.
“Social media has made every citizen a potential publisher,” he said. “This has benefits, but it also increases the speed and scale of misinformation. Falsehood can take root before truth has time to speak. In such an environment, the editorial function is more important than ever. Verification must be your anchor. Balance must be your principle. Professional judgement must be your guide.”
Tinubu urged editors to hold the government accountable but to do so with fairness and accuracy, not cynicism.
“Criticise government policy, but do so with knowledge and fairness,” he advised. “Your aim must never be to tear down what we are building together but to help build a better society.”
On the economic front, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reforming the economy, restoring stability, and expanding opportunities for all Nigerians.
“The reforms we have undertaken have been challenging, but they have been designed to place our economy on a strong and enduring footing,” he explained. “We have taken steps to restore macroeconomic balance, encourage investment, and build confidence. The signs of progress are visible in several sectors of the economy.”
Tinubu, however, admitted that much work remains to be done to ensure that the effects of growth reach ordinary citizens.
“We remain focused on ensuring that growth translates into real improvement in the daily lives of all Nigerians,” he added.
The President emphasised that national development requires collective effort and trust among all stakeholders, including the government, the private sector, civil society, and the media.
“Nation-building requires cooperation. It requires trust. It requires a shared understanding that our future is tied together,” Tinubu said. “Government has its role to play, the private sector has its role to play, civil society has its role to play, and the media has a distinct responsibility to help shape a climate of reason and unity.”
He disclosed that his administration is already considering several incentives and policy measures to support the media industry.
“I have listened to the request of the Chairman of the Guild,” Tinubu revealed. “I noted the corporate tax relief as part of the reform, the exemption from media tax credits, affordable loans from BOI and EBN, and development grants for digitisation. I, as your President, endorse these proposals.”
Tinubu also cautioned editors against allowing their platforms to become tools for division or negativity, urging them instead to project the country’s image with integrity.
“What should be worrisome to you is the image of the country you project to the outside world,” he said. “How well your institution is making an effort to build a nation of credibility with integrity that is required.”
On security, the President assured that his government remains committed to defeating terrorism and banditry while motivating the armed forces to continue defending Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“Yes, we are challenged by terrorism, banditry, and others. We recognise that,” Tinubu noted. “Are we inspiring the armed forces? Are we encouraging them to fight? They put their lives on the line to defend the national sovereignty of this country.”
Concluding his address, the President called on editors to use their influence to strengthen hope, unity, and patriotism among Nigerians.
“Let us choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair,” Tinubu appealed. “Let us remember that the stories we tell ourselves as a nation and as a people influence the country we become.”
He expressed optimism that the deliberations at the conference would help chart a renewed path for responsible journalism and national cohesion.
“I look forward to the outcome of your discussions,” the President said.
