President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian editors to uphold professionalism, fairness, and national interest in their reportage, stressing that the media remains a central pillar of democracy and national cohesion. The President made the call on Wednesday at the opening session of the 2025 All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) held in Abuja.

Addressing members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Tinubu underscored the critical role of the press in shaping public debate, strengthening institutions, and fostering unity in a diverse nation. He also commended the NGE for sustaining what he described as a strong tradition of national reflection and professional engagement.

Welcoming the editors to the State House, the President said: “That the tunnel of darkness and the echoing of the economy is getting better. It is my privilege to welcome you to the State House. This is for free. It’s your house.”

Press as Custodians of Democracy

In his remarks, President Tinubu highlighted the historical significance of the Nigerian press in the nation’s political evolution. He described journalism in Nigeria as a patriotic calling that has, for decades, given voice to the voiceless and defended democratic ideals in times of national turbulence.

“Throughout our history, journalism in Nigeria has been more than a profession — it has been an instrument of national awakening,” he said. “From the early newspapers that stood against colonial oppression to the brave voices that challenged the excesses of military dictatorship, the Nigerian press has always stood on the side of reason, dignity, and justice.”

The President paid tribute to journalists who faced intimidation, detention, and hardship during the military era, noting that their sacrifices helped shape the democratic space Nigeria enjoys today. “We honour them not only in memory but by remaining committed to the values they upheld,” he noted.

Responsible Reporting and National Cohesion

Speaking further, the President urged editors to exercise their authority responsibly, particularly in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly across digital platforms. He warned that careless or divisive reporting could undermine stability and national harmony.

“Freedom secured through struggle is not self-sustaining,” Tinubu asserted. “It requires vigilance, responsibility, and constant reinforcement. Democracy is sustained not merely by elections and institutions but by the integrity of public conversation.”

He reminded editors that their decisions — which stories to publish, which narratives to amplify, and which perspectives to elevate — carry profound implications for national unity.

“As editors and managers of the national information space, you shape narratives, influence public understanding, and determine the issues that dominate national discourse. The weight of that responsibility cannot be overstated,” he said.

While acknowledging that disagreement and debate are natural in any democracy, the President urged the media to avoid sensationalism and to prioritise national interest.

“Criticism, when informed and constructive, is a service to the nation,” he noted. “But cynicism that breeds despair, suspicion, and division weakens the very foundation of the society we are trying to build.”

Media in the Age of Social Platforms

The President observed that social media has significantly transformed the information landscape, enabling widespread citizen participation but also accelerating the spread of falsehoods.

“We live in a time when information travels rapidly and widely,” he said. “Falsehood can take root before truth has time to speak. In such an environment, the editorial function is more important than ever.”

He urged editors to deepen their commitment to verification, accuracy, and balance. “Report boldly, but truthfully. Criticise government policies if you must, but do so with fairness and knowledge. Your aim must never be to tear down what we are building together.”

Reforms and Nation-Building

President Tinubu used the occasion to reiterate his administration’s commitment to economic and institutional reforms. He acknowledged the difficulty of some decisions — including the removal of fuel subsidy and floating of the naira — but maintained that they were essential for long-term stability.

“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, but we know more must be done to translate growth into improved living conditions.”

He stressed that nation-building requires joint effort from government, civil society, the private sector, and the media. “Economic reforms alone cannot build the Nigeria we seek. Cooperation, trust, and unity of purpose are essential.”

Government Support for the Media Sector

Responding to requests earlier presented by the Guild, President Tinubu expressed support for several proposals aimed at strengthening the media industry, including corporate tax relief, VAT exemption for media services, access to affordable development loans, and grants for digital transformation of media organisations.

“I endorse these proposals,” he said, adding that protecting media freedom remains a fundamental commitment of his administration.

National Image and Responsibility

Tinubu urged journalists to help rebuild Nigeria’s global image by promoting stories that reflect resilience, creativity, and national potential.

“What should worry you is the image of the country you project to the outside world,” he said. “We may be challenged, but poverty is not our destiny. Yes, we face terrorism and banditry, but we are confronting them with courage.”

He called on the media to appreciate the sacrifices of the armed forces and to avoid narratives that weaken national morale. “Our armed forces put their lives on the line. It is our responsibility to inspire and support them,” he said.

Closing Remarks

As he concluded his address, the President acknowledged the presence of dignitaries, including state governors, members of the diplomatic corps, royal fathers, and industry leaders. He also thanked Governor Mohamed Idris, Minister of Information, for facilitating his attendance.

He reflected briefly on the early days of his administration, noting the intense public scrutiny that followed key reforms. “If I look back at the way you all dealt with me at the beginning — over subsidy removal and exchange rate reforms — we should celebrate how far we’ve come,” he remarked.

Tinubu wished the editors a productive and thoughtful conference, saying: “I look forward to the outcome of your discussions. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”