𝐁𝐞 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫, 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐠𝐨𝐯𝐭 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐦, 𝐓𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐛𝐮 𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday urged editors of Nigerian media organisations to uphold fairness, truth, and responsibility in their reportage, especially when criticising the government, saying their role is vital in strengthening democracy and national unity.

Speaking during a meeting with members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu said while constructive criticism is necessary in a democracy, it must be guided by objectivity and a commitment to the country’s progress.

He appealed to editors to use their platforms to promote accurate information and discourage divisive narratives, noting that the media remains a key partner in nation-building.

> “You are the conscience of the nation. I urge you to always exercise your gatekeeping responsibility with fairness, truth, and love for country,” the President said. “Criticise us when necessary, but let it be constructive and factual. We are all partners in ensuring Nigeria succeeds.”

Tinubu emphasised that his administration welcomes media scrutiny but called for collaboration in addressing the country’s challenges, including misinformation, insecurity, and economic recovery.

He also assured the editors of his government’s respect for press freedom, stressing that democracy thrives when the media operates independently but responsibly.

In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Eze Anaba, commended Tinubu for engaging directly with the media and assured him of the guild’s readiness to uphold professionalism while holding the government accountable.

Anaba, however, appealed for better working conditions for journalists and stronger institutional protection for press freedom across the country.

The meeting was part of activities marking the 2025 annual conference of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, themed “Media, Democracy, and the Future of Nigeria.”