By Friday Omosola
Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasised the need for a stronger collaboration between the government and the media to support Nigeria’s national development.
Highlighting the importance of a balanced partnership to promote national unity and economic growth, Shettima described media leaders as the nation’s “crème de la crème” and its moral compass.
According to a statement by Shettima’s spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President made these remarks on Tuesday during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the Nigerian Guild of Editors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Shettima also pledged the government’s support for the sustainability of the ‘fourth estate of the realm’, urging a shift towards governance-focused efforts over political considerations and calling for an enduring partnership with the media.
He said, “Let us work together for the nation. What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us. We are now in the period of governance and not politics.”
The Vice President acknowledged the economic challenges faced by the media industry and pledged government support to uphold quality journalism.
“My heart bleeds for the Nigerian media given the harsh economic realities they are enduring. Rest assured, we will do whatever it takes to support the media in carrying out their essential work,” Shettima stated.
He stressed the need for balanced and objective reporting, urging editors to maintain their role as watchdogs while fostering national development.
“When we do well, commend us. When we falter, guide us. We must all work to save this nation—not for ourselves but for our children and grandchildren,” he said.
In response, Eze Anaba, President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and Editor at Vanguard Newspaper, praised the Vice President’s commitment to transparency in governance, particularly in his role as Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC) in clarifying government economic policies.
“You have been prolific in talking about the state of the economy in your responsibility as the Chairman of the National Economic Council,” Anaba said.
He further stressed the media’s commitment to partnering with the government, while upholding its independence.
The NGE President also announced that the 20th All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) will take place from November 7 to 9 in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
