The National Chairman of Nigeria's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has called on media practitioners across the nation to strengthen democracy through credible and responsible journalism.
Call for Media Responsibility in Makurdi
This significant appeal was made on Thursday, November 28, 2025, during the 2025 Press Week, Public Lecture, and Awards Ceremony organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue State Council, held in Makurdi.
Represented by the APC State Chairman, Dr. Benjamin Omale, Prof. Yilwatda served as the guest lecturer for the event, which was themed "Strengthening the Media for Credible Reporting and Democratic Accountability."
The Vital Role of Journalism in Democracy
Prof. Yilwatda emphasized that a vibrant democracy cannot survive when journalism becomes partisan, sensational, or is driven by unverified narratives. He stressed that the primary duty of media practitioners is to use their pen to build the nation, not to break it.
"Government and political parties, including our own APC, must accept criticism. It is a vital part of democracy," Yilwatda stated. "But criticism must be rooted in facts, not propaganda."
He further elaborated that the health of a democracy is directly linked to the quality of information available to its citizens. An ethical and independent press ensures that citizens are well-informed, leaders remain accountable, and national discourse stays constructive.
Challenges and the Path Forward
The APC Chairman also acknowledged the severe pressures facing the journalism profession today. He listed several challenges, including:
- The spread of misinformation
- Political toxicity
- Commercial constraints
- Security threats to journalists
- The disruptive impact of new technology
He described the NUJ gathering as a timely opportunity to reaffirm core journalistic values, strengthen media institutions, and build new alliances to secure the future of Nigerian democracy.
In his welcome address, the NUJ State Chairman, Bemdoo Ugber, commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering commitment to the safety and welfare of journalists working in Benue State.
