President Bola Tinubu has charged Nigerian editors to uphold truth, balance, and professionalism as the cornerstones of responsible journalism, emphasizing that verification must remain their anchor in an age of rampant misinformation.
Speaking at the Annual Conference of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) held at the State House, Abuja, on Wednesday, President Tinubu underscored the critical role of the media in strengthening democracy and promoting national cohesion.
He commended the Guild for maintaining a tradition of reflection and engagement, describing the chosen theme, “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” as both timely and vital to Nigeria’s democratic growth.
“The theme invites us to reflect on the state of our democracy and the ways in which public discourse can either strengthen or weaken the bonds that hold our nation together,” the President said. “This conversation is necessary as we continue to build institutions that are transparent, resilient, and trusted by our citizens.”
President Tinubu paid tribute to generations of Nigerian journalists who, through courage and sacrifice, stood for justice and democracy. He recalled how many members of the press endured intimidation and detention during periods of national struggle, laying the foundation for today’s freedoms.
“Freedom secured through struggle is not self-sustaining. It requires constant vigilance and responsible exercise,” he said. “A democracy is sustained not only by elections and laws, but also by the integrity of public conversation.”
Emphasizing the weight of editorial responsibility, the President reminded editors that they “shape narratives and influence public understanding,” urging them to exercise that power with fairness, wisdom, and a sense of national duty.
While acknowledging that Nigeria’s diversity naturally breeds debate and differences, Tinubu warned that disagreement must not erode national unity. “Criticism, when informed and constructive, serves the nation,” he said. “But cynicism that breeds mistrust and despair can weaken the very foundations of the society we all seek to improve.”
On the impact of social media, the President noted that the rise of citizen publishing has amplified the speed and spread of misinformation. “Falsehood can take root before truth has time to speak,” he cautioned. “In such an environment, the editorial function is more important than ever. Verification must be your anchor; balance must be your principle, and professional judgment must be your guide.”
Tinubu urged journalists to continue reporting boldly but truthfully and to critique government policies with fairness and knowledge. “Your aim must never be to tear down, but to help build a better society,” he said.
On the nation’s economic trajectory, the President reiterated his administration’s commitment to stabilizing the economy, restoring investor confidence, and ensuring that reforms translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians.
“Nation-building requires cooperation, trust, and a shared understanding that our future is tied together,” he stated. “The media also has a distinct responsibility to help shape a climate of reason and unity.”
The President concluded by commending the Guild’s contributions to national development and urging editors to continue setting high professional standards.
“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,” he said. “Let us choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair.”