President Bola Tinubu has been characterised as a “true reflection of the resilience, courage, and enduring struggle” of the Nigerian media by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
He said this at the 2025 All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) held in Abuja on Wednesday.
The conference marked a significant occasion, being the first time a sitting President had attended the event.
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Idris stated that the President’s presence was a “profound symbol of respect and solidarity with the Fourth Estate of the Realm.”
Idris drew a direct parallel between the President’s life and the history of the Nigerian press.
“Mr President’s life and leadership embody the same fortitude that has defined the Nigerian press from its earliest days. Like the media, he has stood firm in defence of truth, democracy, and the people’s right to be heard. His story and that of the Nigerian media are intertwined in resilience,” the Minister asserted.
He highlighted the administration’s commitment to partnering with the media in the country’s renewal efforts.
The Minister pointed to ongoing and necessary economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of the naira, and the forthcoming modernisation of the tax system, as tough but essential decisions aimed at repositioning the Nigerian economy for long-term prosperity.
“Tough but necessary decisions are being made to build a stronger nation. It worked in Lagos; with your fair and balanced reporting, it will work for Nigeria,” he told the gathering of editors.
Reaffirming the administration’s stance on press freedom, the Minister disclosed that over 1,000 licensed radio and television stations are currently operating freely across the country “without intimidation or censorship.”
He stressed that under Tinubu’s leadership, “no media organisation has been shut down or sanctioned for dissenting views.”
“This is not by coincidence, but by conviction,” Idris stated. “The President understands, from personal experience, that a free and vibrant media is essential to democracy.”
The Minister also noted Nigeria’s growing global profile in media development, citing the country’s success in securing the hosting rights for the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMLI).
He described this as a key milestone that will project Nigeria as a continental leader in ethical journalism and responsible communication.
Idris called on Nigerian editors to remain constructive partners in national progress, urging them to tell the Nigerian story with “fairness, truth, and optimism.”
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“This administration believes in the power of the media to shape perception and inspire hope,” he said.
“We invite you to engage, to critique constructively, and to join hands with the government in deepening our democracy,” adding that collaboration between the media and government is crucial to advance national unity and uphold the promise of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
