Tinubu Tasks Editors On Responsible Journalism, National Cohesion
PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerian editors to exercise their influence with “wisdom, fairness, and a strong sense of national duty,” stressing that responsible journalism remains central to sustaining democracy and national cohesion.
Declaring open the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) at the State House, Abuja, yesterday, President Tinubu said that freedom secured through struggle “is not self-sustaining” and must be constantly protected through truth, balance, and professional integrity.
“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,” the President stated.
He cautioned against cynicism and divisive reportage, warning that misinformation spreads faster than truth in the digital age, thereby threatening national unity.
“The editorial function is more important than ever. Verification must be your anchor; balance must be your principle, and professional judgment your guide,” Tinubu said.
The President acknowledged the historical sacrifices of journalists in defending democracy and human rights during Nigeria’s difficult political periods, noting that their courage continues to underpin the nation’s progress.
“Journalism in Nigeria has always been more than a profession. It has been an instrument of national awakening,” he said.
President Tinubu assured that his administration remains committed to rebuilding the economy, encouraging investment, and deepening reforms that “translate into real improvements in the daily lives of Nigerians.”
He added that national development cannot be achieved by government alone but through cooperation and trust among all sectors, including the media.
“Let us choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair. The stories we tell ourselves as a nation influence the country we become,” he concluded.
The President’s message set the tone for the conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” which brought together media executives, governors, legislators, and communication experts from across the country.
Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma reminded Nigerian editors that history will judge their role in sustaining democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Delivering the keynote address at the 21st All Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC) in Abuja, Uzodimma said editors are not bystanders but active participants in shaping national destiny.
“You are not spectators in 2027. You are active participants. The narratives you shape will determine whether Nigerians approach the elections with hope or cynicism,” Uzodimma said.
He described the media as the “fourth estate of the realm,” warning that their coverage could either strengthen or erode confidence in governance.
“Even in the medieval age, the press was the fourth estate. In 2027, history will critique your role in making or marring Nigeria,” he declared.
Uzodimma commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring the conference open, noting that his presence showed a clear commitment to transparency, media engagement, and disinformation control.
“When a sitting President dedicates time to address editors, it signals that disinformation, national unity, and responsible journalism are priorities of state,” he said.
In his opening remarks, The President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Mr. Eze Anaba praised President Tinubu for recognising the media’s strategic role in democracy. He traced the history of ANEC to 2004, describing it as a “national institution for dialogue, reflection, and renewal.”
Anaba said the conference theme: “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors” — reflected the nation’s urgent need for responsible journalism.
“A free, responsible, and vibrant press remains the lifeblood of democracy. When the press thrives, democracy breathes. When it is stifled, democracy suffocates,” he said.
He appealed to the Federal Government to grant the media fiscal incentives, tax relief, and access to development funding, while repealing laws that inhibit press freedom.
“Journalism is a public good deserving of protection — not for patronage, but to strengthen the foundations of our democracy,” he noted.
Both Uzodimma and Anaba emphasised that the future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the moral courage of editors to speak truth to power without weaponising information.
They called on editors to defend unity, promote fact-based discourse, and use the pen as an instrument of peace.
“When journalists are respected, protected, and empowered, governance becomes more transparent and citizens more informed,” Anaba said.
The conference, attended by over 400 media executives, governors, and senior government officials, resolved to deepen collaboration between the press and policymakers in pursuit of credible elections and national stability.
