President Bola Tinubu has called on media managers to focus on factual reporting and uphold professional integrity as key pillars of the industry, highlighting their essential role in Nigeria’s development.
Tinubu appealed during his address at the All Nigerian Editors Conference in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Thursday, November 7.
The conference, which brought together media owners, editors, and other key stakeholders, was held under the theme: “Economic Growth and Development Strategies in a Resource-Rich Country.”
During the event, several media professionals expressed concerns about the economic difficulties facing the industry, urging the President to take steps to safeguard the future of Nigeria’s media sector.
Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, President Tinubu praised the media’s pivotal role in shaping public perception and contributing to national development.
He emphasised that editors and media managers serve as the “custodians of public perception” and the “gatekeepers of information” who must uphold the truth.
“You are the voice of the people, and your work has the power to drive the nation forward,” Tinubu said, adding that the media must play a constructive role in helping Nigerians understand the government’s actions and policies.
The President went on to highlight the transformative potential of the media, noting that responsible and factual journalism could help address the country’s economic and social challenges.
He urged media professionals to report accurately and fairly, fostering an environment of constructive engagement that would enable the public to better grasp the government’s efforts to improve the nation.
“My administration is committed to turning our challenges into opportunities,” Tinubu affirmed.
“By ensuring that our vast resources bring prosperity to all Nigerians, we can build a resilient, diversified economy that offers security, opportunity, and hope for all.”
He further underscored the strategic importance of Nigeria’s abundant resources, both human and natural, suggesting that with the right leadership, the country has the potential to become one of the world’s most prosperous nations.
“This is the question that I believe Nigerians elected me to answer decisively,” Tinubu stated.
“And it is the question that fuels my vision for a country that lives up to its full potential.”
In closing, the President called for greater collaboration between the government, citizens, and the media, stressing that unity is crucial to achieving long-term economic stability and growth for Nigeria.
The conference also provided a platform for editors and media stakeholders to discuss the challenges facing the industry, particularly in light of the current economic climate, and explore solutions to strengthen the media’s role in nation-building.
