President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian editors and media executives to uphold the highest standards of truth, fairness, and patriotism in their coverage of government activities and national issues.
DDM gathered that the President made this appeal while addressing members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) during their annual convention in Abuja on Wednesday.
Tinubu urged editors to use their influence responsibly, stressing that while the media must hold leaders accountable, it should also promote unity, stability, and hope among citizens.
According to him, “The role of the press in a democracy is not only to criticize but also to build, to guide, and to help the nation progress.”
The President emphasized that responsible journalism is essential for sustaining democracy, maintaining social harmony, and shaping informed public opinion.
He warned that misinformation, sensationalism, and biased reporting could deepen divisions and erode public trust in institutions.
“I urge you to be fair and truthful in your criticisms,” Tinubu said.
“Exercise your gatekeeping power with wisdom and patriotism. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and your words shape the direction of our society,” he added.
The President assured the editors that his administration remains committed to transparency, freedom of the press, and open dialogue with media professionals.
He further noted that government policies on economic recovery, security, and social investment are aimed at creating long-term stability, not short-term political gains.
Tinubu also called for collaboration between the media and government in combating fake news and disinformation, which he described as major threats to peace and national security.
“Nigeria cannot afford to be torn apart by misinformation or divisive narratives,” he said.
“We must all work together to preserve truth as the foundation of our democracy.”
Responding on behalf of the editors, NGE President Eze Anaba commended President Tinubu for recognizing the vital role of the press and pledged the Guild’s commitment to ethical and professional journalism.
Anaba, however, appealed to the government to protect press freedom and ensure that journalists can operate without fear, intimidation, or censorship.
He reiterated that the media’s duty is to inform, educate, and hold power to account, but stressed that this responsibility can only be effectively carried out in an environment of freedom and trust.
Political observers who spoke to DDM said Tinubu’s message reflects his administration’s awareness of the media’s power to influence public perception, especially in a time of economic hardship and political tension.
They noted that the appeal for fairness and truthfulness could signal a new phase of engagement between government and journalists, provided both sides maintain mutual respect and transparency.
The Nigerian Guild of Editors, founded in 1961, remains one of the country’s most respected professional bodies in journalism, representing editors across print, broadcast, and digital platforms.
