President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday pledged the Federal Government’s support for the Nigerian media, stressing the critical role of journalists in shaping national dialogue, protecting democracy, and promoting national unity.
He made the remarks while declaring open the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors.”
Tinubu commended the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) for sustaining professional standards and providing a platform for reflection on national issues.
He described journalism as “an instrument of national awakening and progress” and underscored its historical role in defending truth, promoting development, and holding government accountable.
“A democracy is sustained not only by elections and laws, but also by the integrity of public conversation,” the President said. “As editors and managers of the national information space, you shape narratives, influence public understanding, and decide what becomes national focus.
This responsibility must be exercised with fairness, wisdom, and a strong sense of national duty.”
He warned against misinformation, particularly in the social media era, urging editors to maintain accuracy, balance, and professional judgment.
“Falsehood can take root before truth has time to speak. Verification must be your anchor; balance must be your principle, and professional judgment your guide,” Tinubu said.
The President also reassured editors that the government would explore measures to ease operational challenges in the media industry, including fiscal and infrastructural support, emphasizing that a free and viable press is essential for democracy.
“Economic reforms and institutional improvements alone cannot build the Nigeria we seek. Nation-building requires cooperation, trust, and shared understanding. The media has a distinct responsibility to help shape a climate of reason and unity,” he added.
NGE President Eze Anaba highlighted the financial pressures facing media houses, warning that many outlets struggle to sustain operations amid rising costs.
He called on the government to introduce fiscal support, tax relief, VAT exemptions, and grants for digital transformation.
“Most newspapers and television houses today face prohibitive costs. At N1.5 million per tonne of newsprint, the industry struggles to survive. We appeal to the President for support to ensure the media can continue protecting democracy,” Anaba said.
Delivering the keynote address, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State emphasized the role of editors in shaping public discourse and fostering national cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections. He urged journalists to report responsibly, uphold ethical standards, correct misinformation, and use their platforms to promote understanding and hope.
“The pen remains mightier than the sword. Editors are not only reporters they are architects of national cohesion. You must help build bridges of understanding and promote hope among our people as we approach 2027,” Uzodinma said.
The conference drew high-profile attendees, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III; Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State; Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Information Mohammed Idris; and presidential advisers Bayo Onanuga and Sunday Dare, alongside other media executives and NGE members.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
