President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerian journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, emphasizing that a free but responsible press is crucial for national unity and democratic development.
Speaking on Wednesday at the opening of the Nigerian Guild of Editors’ Annual Conference held at the State House, with the theme *“Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,”* Tinubu reflected on the historic role of the Nigerian press in shaping the nation’s democratic journey.
He recalled how early newspapers fought against colonial injustice and how courageous journalists kept hope alive during military rule, often enduring intimidation, detention, and hardship in defense of the public interest.
The President said the freedom achieved through such struggles must be exercised with responsibility, noting that democracy thrives when public discourse is guided by integrity.
He reminded editors that, as gatekeepers of national information, they have the power to shape narratives, influence understanding, and set the national agenda.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s diversity and the right to debate, Tinubu cautioned that disagreement must not undermine national cohesion.
He said constructive criticism, rather than cynicism, serves the public interest and strengthens governance.
The President also warned of the growing threat of misinformation in the social media era, urging editors to uphold truth, balance, and sound professional judgment.
“In an age where social media turns every citizen into a potential publisher and accelerates misinformation, verification must be the anchor, balance the principle, and professional judgment the guide,” he said.
“Report boldly, but truthfully. Critique government policy with knowledge and fairness. The goal must never be to tear down, but to build a better society.”
On his administration’s progress, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to securing the nation, stabilising the economy, and expanding opportunities.
He acknowledged the difficulties of ongoing reforms but maintained that they are necessary to place Nigeria on a sustainable path, with visible progress emerging across several sectors.
He added that nation-building depends on cooperation, trust, and a shared understanding of collective destiny, with government, the private sector, civil society, and the media each playing vital roles.
Concluding his remarks, Tinubu said: “Let us choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair. The stories we tell ourselves as a nation shape the country we become. Distinguished editors, your work matters. I wish you constructive and fruitful deliberations.”
