President Tinubu Urges Nigerian Media to Put National Interest First, Avoid Amplifying Terrorists

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian journalists to prioritize national interest, factual reporting, and responsible journalism, urging the media not to become platforms for terrorists, kidnappers, or criminal groups seeking to destabilize the country.

Speaking at the Inaugural State House Press Corps Dinner held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President emphasized that while freedom of expression and press freedom remain fundamental pillars of democracy, they must be exercised with professionalism, accuracy, and responsibility.

"The media must choose fact over falsehood, substance over sensation, and credibility over clickbait," President Tinubu said.

He warned that sensational headlines capable of promoting terrorist propaganda or spreading misinformation could undermine Nigeria's security efforts and democratic progress.

Government Defends Economic and Security Reforms

President Tinubu acknowledged that his administration has received both praise and criticism from the media, stating that constructive journalism helps citizens better understand government policies and national direction.

He highlighted improvements in the nation's economy, saying Nigeria is beginning to reap the benefits of difficult economic reforms.

According to the President:

  • Public revenues are improving.
  • Foreign reserves have exceeded $50 billion.
  • Investor confidence is returning.
  • The oil and gas sector is attracting fresh investments.

On security, he noted that intensified military operations, improved intelligence gathering, and stronger collaboration among security agencies have resulted in:

  • The neutralisation of thousands of terrorists and criminal elements.
  • The rescue of kidnapped victims.
  • The recovery of communities previously affected by insecurity.

He reaffirmed the government's commitment to restoring peace across every part of Nigeria.

Information Minister Calls for Responsible Reporting

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, urged journalists to report security issues responsibly and avoid headlines that unintentionally amplify the activities of terrorists and criminal organisations.

He stressed that journalism should continue promoting:

  • National unity
  • Truth
  • Fairness
  • Professional ethics

The Minister also highlighted recent government initiatives aimed at strengthening the media industry, including:

  • The establishment of a UNESCO-backed Media and Information Literacy Institute.
  • The launch of the FreeTV digital broadcasting platform.

State House Press Corps Seeks Annual Dialogue

Chairman of the State House Press Corps (SHPC), Emmanuel Anule, appealed to President Tinubu to make the Presidential Press Corps Dinner an annual event.

He described the President's attendance as a demonstration of his administration's commitment to press freedom and constructive engagement with journalists.

President Tinubu welcomed the proposal, noting that an annual gathering would strengthen communication, reduce misunderstandings, and build mutual trust between government officials and the media.

Distinguished Nigerians Honoured

The event also recognised several prominent Nigerians for their contributions to national development.

Honourees included:

  • FCT Minister Nyesom Wike
  • Industrialist Aliko Dangote
  • Business leader Tony Elumelu
  • FIRS Executive Chairman Zacch Adedeji
  • Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Atiku Bagudu
  • Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo

Special awards were also presented to:

  • Segun Adeniyi – First Special Adviser to serve as Presidential Spokesman.
  • Felix Onuah – Long-serving State House Correspondent.
  • Nicholas Okechukwu – Distinguished Service Award.
  • Late Baba Ladan Abubakar – Posthumous Award.
  • Dr. Emmanuel Anule – Outstanding State House Press Corps Chairmanship Award.

Senior government officials in attendance included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, ministers, governors, and other top public office holders.


By Afreecanimage News Desk
Date: July 3, 2026

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