President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged editors of media organisations to report without fear and critique government policies with knowledge and fairness, thereby helping to build a better society.
President Tinubu emphasised the importance of the democratic era in Nigeria while recalling the sacrifices of journalists during the military period.
He made these remarks at the Nigerian Guild of Editors’ Annual Conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors”, held at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday.
The President commended the leadership of the Guild for sustaining this tradition of reflection and professional engagement, noting that the theme reflects on the state of Nigeria’s democracy and how public discourse can either strengthen or weaken the bonds that hold the nation together.
His words: “This conversation is necessary as we continue to build institutions that are transparent, resilient, and trusted by our citizens. Throughout our history, journalism in Nigeria has been more than a profession. It has been an instrument of national awakening. From the early newspapers that challenged colonial injustice to the principled voices that kept hope alive during the dark days of military dictatorship, the Nigerian press has stood at critical points in our nationhood to defend reason, dignity and progress.
“Many journalists endured intimidation, detention, and personal hardship in defence of the public good. Their sacrifices are part of the foundation upon which our democracy rests today. We honour them not only in memory but also by remaining committed to the values they upheld. Yet, freedom secured through struggle is not self-sustaining. It requires constant vigilance and responsible exercise. A democracy is sustained not only by elections and laws, but also by the integrity of public conversation. This is where your role becomes central and indispensable.
“As editors and managers of the national information space, you shape narratives. You influence public understanding. You decide what becomes national focus and how our collective challenges are interpreted. The weight of that responsibility is significant. It must be exercised with wisdom, fairness and a strong sense of national duty.”
President Tinubu acknowledged that Nigeria is a large and diverse country, affirming that debate and differences are part of its reality. However, he noted that disagreement must never translate into the erosion of national cohesion.
“Criticism, when informed and constructive, serves the nation. But cynicism that breeds mistrust and despair can weaken the very foundations of the society we all seek to improve. The national interest must always remain paramount.
“We live in a time when information travels rapidly and widely. Social media has made every citizen a potential publisher. This has benefits, but it also increases the speed and scale of misinformation. Falsehood can take root before truth has time to speak. In such an environment, the editorial function is more important than ever. Verification must be your anchor; balance must be your principle, and professional judgement must be your guide,” the President advised.
“I urge you, therefore, to continue upholding the highest standards of journalism. Report boldly, but do so truthfully. 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.”
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to securing the nation, sustaining economic stability, and widening the circle of opportunity for all citizens.
While acknowledging that the reforms undertaken have been challenging, he explained that they are designed to place the economy on a strong and enduring footing.
“We have taken steps to restore macroeconomic balance, encourage investment and rebuild confidence. The signs of progress are visible in several sectors of the economy. Still, we know there is more work to do, and we remain focused on ensuring that growth translates into real improvements in the daily lives of Nigerians.
“However, economic reforms and institutional improvements alone cannot build the Nigeria we seek. Nation-building requires cooperation. It requires trust. It requires a shared understanding that our future is tied together. The government has its role. The private sector has its role. Civil society has its role. The media also has a distinct responsibility to help shape a climate of reason and unity.”
The Nigerian leader sought the continuous support of the media in exercising its responsibility with seriousness and honour — and encouraged editors to choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair.
He further stated: “Let us remember that the stories we tell ourselves as a nation and as a people, influence the country we become. Distinguished Editors, your work matters. The tone you set in your newsrooms, the standards you enforce, and the courage with which you defend the truth will all help shape the direction of our national journey. Let us carry this responsibility with purpose.”
