President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian journalists to continue holding the government accountable through constructive criticism, but to do so with fairness, professionalism, and a sense of national responsibility.
Speaking at the All Nigerian Editors Conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the President acknowledged the indispensable role of the media in shaping public discourse and strengthening democracy. He urged media practitioners to remain steadfast in upholding the ethics of journalism while contributing to national development.
“I urge you to continue upholding the standard of journalism — report boldly, but do so truthfully,” Tinubu said. “Critique government policy, but do so with knowledge and fairness. Your aim must never be to tear down, but to help build a better society.”
The President cautioned that while criticism is essential to democratic governance, it should not be wielded as a tool to undermine the nation’s progress. He described the media as a strategic partner in the effort to build a stronger and more united Nigeria.
Tinubu also reflected on the rise of social media, noting that although it has expanded citizen participation in journalism, it has also accelerated the spread of misinformation.
“We live in a time when information travels rapidly and widely. Social media has made every citizen a potential publisher,” he said. “This has benefits, but it also increases the speed and scale of misinformation. Falsehood can take root before truth has time to speak.”
He emphasised that in such an environment, the editorial role of professional journalists becomes even more vital. “Verification must be your anchor; balance must be your principle, and professional judgement must be your guide,” he added.
The conference, which drew leading editors, publishers, and media executives from across the country, focused on the evolving challenges and responsibilities of journalism in the digital age.
