President Tinubu's Urgent Warning to Media Professionals
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong caution about the dangers of social media misinformation during his address at the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference. The event took place at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, bringing together the nation's top media executives.
The President emphasized that social media platforms have transformed every Nigerian citizen into a potential publisher, creating both opportunities and significant challenges for the country's information landscape. While acknowledging the benefits of digital democratization, Tinubu highlighted the increased speed and scale at which false information can spread through these channels.
The Critical Role of Editors in National Development
President Tinubu called upon editors to champion responsible journalism that strengthens Nigeria's democracy rather than undermining it. He stressed that freedom of expression should be used constructively to improve governance and national unity.
"Social media has made every citizen a potential publisher," Tinubu told the assembled media professionals. "This has benefits, but it also increases the speed and scale of misinformation. You can criticize the government, but do so with knowledge and fairness."
The President expressed particular concern about the image of Nigeria projected to the international community. He urged media institutions to help build a nation of credibility and integrity that commands global respect.
Media Industry Challenges and Economic Pressures
Earlier in the conference, Eze Anaba, President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, painted a concerning picture of the media industry's current state. He revealed that many newsrooms are struggling to survive amid economic challenges and shrinking revenues.
Anaba appealed to the Tinubu administration for support through tax reliefs, grants, and low-interest loans to help media organizations continue their vital democratic role. He warned that the inability of many outlets to pay salaries or sustain operations threatens the very foundation of Nigerian democracy.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who delivered the keynote address, challenged editors to examine their own role in the nation's trust deficit. He emphasized that editorial choices can either heal or divide the country, especially with the 2027 general elections approaching.
"You cannot call leaders to accountability while practicing bias in the newsroom," Governor Uzodimma stated, urging media professionals to rise above partisanship.
Conference Focus and Distinguished Participants
The 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference gathered over 500 editors and media executives from across the country under the theme: "Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors."
Prominent figures in attendance included the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar, and Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of Arise News and ThisDay Newspaper. Media veterans such as Segun Osoba, Femi Adesina, and Garba Shehu also participated in the significant gathering.
The conference agenda included crucial discussions on media's role in combating terrorism and national security, with former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd) scheduled to speak. Additional sessions addressed the evolving face of journalism, including battles against misinformation, AI disruption, and credibility gaps.
President Tinubu's message underscores the growing global concern about information integrity in the digital age and positions Nigerian media at the forefront of this critical national conversation.
