President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged Nigerian editors to exercise their influence responsibly by promoting truth, national unity, and constructive public discourse, emphasizing that the media remains a cornerstone of democracy and national stability.
Speaking at the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Annual Conference held at the State House, Abuja, on Wednesday, President Tinubu underscored the indispensable role of editors in strengthening democratic institutions and shaping public understanding in an era of rapid information exchange and growing misinformation.
Welcoming the participants, the President commended the Guild for sustaining “a tradition of reflection and professional engagement,” noting that this year’s theme “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors” aptly reflects the national mood and the need to safeguard democratic values.
“Your presence here reflects the enduring importance of the media in shaping national direction and strengthening democratic life,” Tinubu said. “The theme you have chosen invites us to reflect on the state of our democracy and the ways in which public discourse can either strengthen or weaken the bonds that hold our nation together.”
He recalled the historic role of the Nigerian press as a vehicle of national awakening, lauding generations of journalists who defied colonial and military repression to defend public interest and democratic ideals.
“From the early newspapers that challenged colonial injustice to the principled voices that kept hope alive during the dark days of military dictatorship, the Nigerian press has stood at critical points in our nationhood to defend reason, dignity and progress,” the President said. “Many endured intimidation, detention, and hardship in defence of the public good. Their sacrifices are part of the foundation upon which our democracy rests today.”
However, Tinubu warned that the freedom secured through years of struggle is “not self-sustaining” and must be guarded by constant vigilance and a responsible exercise of that liberty.
He reminded editors that their positions as managers of the nation’s information space confer great influence, urging them to wield it with wisdom and fairness.
“You shape narratives. You influence public understanding. You decide what becomes national focus and how our collective challenges are interpreted,” he told the editors. “This responsibility must be exercised with a strong sense of national duty.”
Addressing the proliferation of misinformation through social media, Tinubu said the speed and reach of falsehoods make the role of editors more vital than ever, stressing the need for accuracy and balance in reportage.
“Social media has made every citizen a potential publisher. Falsehood can take root before truth has time to speak,” he warned. “Verification must be your anchor; balance must be your principle, and professional judgement must be your guide.”
While encouraging critical evaluation of government policies, Tinubu urged editors to do so “with knowledge and fairness,” emphasizing that journalism should aim to build rather than tear down.
On the economy, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, boosting investment, and ensuring that growth yields tangible benefits for citizens.
“The reforms we have undertaken have been challenging, but they are designed to place our economy on a strong and enduring footing,” he said. “The signs of progress are visible in several sectors, but we remain focused on ensuring that growth translates into real improvements in the daily lives of Nigerians.”
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Tinubu further noted that nation-building transcends government action, calling for collaboration among all sectors including the private sector, civil society, and the media to sustain trust and unity.
“Nation-building requires cooperation, trust, and a shared understanding that our future is tied together,” he said. “Government has its role, and so does the media, which must help shape a climate of reason and unity.”
Concluding his address, Tinubu urged editors to continue setting high standards in their newsrooms and to remain steadfast in defending the truth.
“Let us choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair,” he said. “The tone you set and the courage with which you defend the truth will help shape our national journey.”
The President wished the Guild fruitful deliberations and reaffirmed his administration’s respect for press freedom and partnership with the media in building a stronger, united Nigeria.