Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian journalists to prioritise the national interest in their reporting, urging the media to avoid amplifying the messages of terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal groups while upholding the principles of press freedom and responsible journalism.
Speaking at the inaugural State House Press Corps Dinner in Abuja, President Tinubu said freedom of expression and a free press remain fundamental pillars of democracy but stressed that those rights must be exercised with responsibility, particularly as Nigeria confronts security challenges.
The President warned that sensational or irresponsible reporting could inadvertently advance the objectives of criminal groups seeking to spread fear and division.
“The media must resist the temptation of becoming megaphones for terrorists and kidnappers. We must protect our nation.”
Tinubu reiterated his commitment to governing in accordance with the Constitution and said the media and government share a collective responsibility to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy rather than undermine it through misinformation or divisive narratives.
He encouraged journalists to provide context in their reporting, helping citizens understand not only current developments but also the direction of government policies.
Addressing the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital age, the President urged media practitioners to uphold the values of accuracy, fairness, and professionalism.
“The media must choose fact over falsehood, substance over sensation and credibility over clickbait.”
He added that freedom of speech should not be interpreted as a licence to spread falsehoods or defame others, arguing that public confidence in journalism depends on credibility and responsible reporting.
Tinubu also defended the administration’s use of the Cybercrimes Act, stating that the legislation is intended to combat malicious falsehoods, online fraud, and other digital crimes rather than restrict legitimate press freedom.
On the economy, the President maintained that the government’s reform agenda is beginning to yield positive results. He cited improvements in public revenue, foreign reserves, investor confidence, and renewed investment in the oil and gas sector as indicators of economic progress.
Regarding security, Tinubu said military operations and intelligence coordination had intensified, leading to the neutralisation of thousands of criminal elements, the rescue of kidnapped victims, and the recovery of communities previously affected by insecurity.
The event was attended by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, senior government officials, governors, ministers, members of the diplomatic community, and journalists covering the Presidency.
In separate remarks, George Akume, Femi Gbajabiamila, and Information Minister Mohammed Idris commended the administration’s reform agenda and urged journalists to continue reporting responsibly while supporting national cohesion.
State House Press Corps Chairman Emmanuel Anule called for the dinner to become an annual engagement, saying regular dialogue between the Presidency and journalists would strengthen mutual understanding, transparency, and democratic governance.
The ceremony also recognised several distinguished Nigerians for their contributions to national development, including Nyesom Wike, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, and veteran journalist Segun Adeniyi, alongside other public servants and media professionals.
