President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerian editors to uphold national cohesion and exercise responsible journalism to strengthen democracy. The President made the call on Wednesday at the annual conference of the Nigerian Guild of Editors at the State House, where he delivered an opening address themed, “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors.”
President Tinubu commended the Nigerian press for its historic role as an instrument of national awakening, defending reason and progress against colonial injustice and military dictatorship. However, he cautioned that freedom requires constant vigilance and responsible exercise, noting that the integrity of public conversation is central to sustaining democracy.
The President stressed the significant weight of the editors’ responsibility to shape narratives and influence public understanding in a large and diverse country like Nigeria. He warned that while informed and constructive criticism serves the nation, cynicism that breeds mistrust can weaken the foundations of society. He emphasised that the national interest must always remain paramount.
Addressing the challenges posed by the rapid spread of information, particularly through social media, the President stated that falsehood can take root before truth has time to speak. He urged editors to make verification their anchor, balance their principle, and professional judgement their guide, adding, “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.”
President Tinubu also reassured the editors that his administration remains committed to securing the nation, sustaining economic stability, and widening opportunity for all citizens. He acknowledged the reforms have been challenging but are designed to place the economy on a strong footing, noting that signs of progress are visible in several sectors. The President concluded by asking the editors to choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair.
