President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday urged editors across Nigeria to uphold the highest standards of responsible journalism to strengthen democratic governance and promote national cohesion.
He made the appeal while declaring open the Annual Conference of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) at the State House, Abuja, commending the Guild for sustaining professional reflection and engagement.
“It is my privilege to welcome you to this year’s conference. Your presence reflects the enduring importance of the media in shaping national direction,” Tinubu said.
The President described the conference theme, “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors”, as timely, calling on editors to strengthen public trust, deepen civic responsibility, and promote truth in reporting.
“Freedom secured through struggle is not self-sustaining. It requires constant vigilance and responsible exercise. Report boldly, but truthfully. Critique government policy with knowledge and fairness. Your aim must never be to tear down, but to help build a better society,” he added.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to national security, economic stability, and inclusive growth, stressing that nation-building requires cooperation, trust, and shared understanding between government and the media.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris hailed the historic event as the first time a sitting President attended the Guild’s annual conference, emphasizing Tinubu’s support for press freedom. He noted that under the current administration, over 1,000 licensed broadcasting stations operate freely without harassment or closure.
The conference, themed “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors” with a sub-theme “Electoral Integrity and Trust Deficit: What Nigerians Expect in 2027”, was attended by top government officials, media moguls, veteran editors, and senior journalists. Dignitaries included Gov. Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Gov. Usman Ododo (Kogi), Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, and media veteran Olusegun Osoba.
