Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the country’s media industry to become active promoters of democratic values and national development narratives, describing the press as a cornerstone of democracy.
The president, represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, delivered the message during the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) 70th Anniversary celebrations in Abuja on Saturday.
He emphasised the media’s power to influence public perception and called on journalists to “champion the stories that reflect Nigeria’s growth and democratic consolidation,” including institutional reforms, infrastructure expansion, and citizen participation.
“Such narratives are essential in cementing trust in public institutions and enhancing national cohesion,” Tinubu said. “In doing so, the media reaffirms its vital role in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.”
Highlighting the government’s commitment to a free and independent press, the president pointed to a partnership with UNESCO aimed at establishing a Category-2 Media and Information Literacy centre in Abuja—an initiative designed to enhance ethical standards in journalism.
President Tinubu also appealed to the press to see itself as a strategic partner to government in nation-building, rather than merely adversarial. “While we welcome scrutiny, we also urge collaboration in fostering peace, security, and prosperity,” he noted.
The president applauded the NUJ for its dedication to preserving the history and legacy of Nigerian journalism, particularly through the launch of Bleeding Ink, a commemorative book by former national secretary Shu’aibu Leman.
Awards were presented to governors from Kano, Bayelsa, Ondo, Borno, Imo, Oyo, Akwa Ibom, and Bauchi states, as well as to past NUJ presidents and members of the National Association of Women Journalists, during the high-profile gala event.
