President Bola Tinubu on Friday urged journalists to uphold professionalism and avoid irresponsible reporting, warning that the media must not become a platform for narratives that undermine Nigeria’s security and stability.
Speaking at the Presidential Press Corps Dinner at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja, Tinubu said the country was making progress in tackling insecurity and cautioned against reports that could embolden criminal elements.
“We must not undermine our country with irresponsible reporting. If we do, we will have no safe space left, especially at a time when our nation is tackling security threats, neutralising thousands of criminal elements, and rescuing hostages. The media should not become an amplifier for those who wish to harm us,” the President said.
Describing the relationship between the government and the press as a defining feature of democracy, Tinubu said while the media has a duty to question those in power, journalists must also uphold accuracy, professionalism and integrity.
“There is always tension between the government and the press, but that is the nature of democracy. The government must act, the media must watch, the government must explain, and the media must question,” he said.
He added: “In a world where everyone with a smartphone can claim to be a journalist, the standards of professionalism, accuracy and integrity must never be compromised. Freedom of expression is not freedom to defame.”
The President also defended his administration’s economic reforms, noting that although they were initially met with criticism, they are beginning to gain wider acceptance.
“At the beginning of the administration, it was hard the way you approached the reforms, but I’m glad tonight you give credit to that reform,” he told journalists.
Highlighting what he described as the impact of the reforms, Tinubu said the Nigerian stock market had grown significantly since he assumed office.
“The stock market has done remarkably, five times higher than in 2023. I have created wealth for some of your uncles and grandfathers,” he said.
The President drew laughter from the audience when he jokingly referred to First Lady Oluremi Tinubu as “Iya Alakara,” over her recent comments about akara.
Earlier, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, lauded Tinubu’s leadership, saying the administration had implemented 10 major reforms in three years and remained focused on delivering more.
“In three years, you have 10 reforms under your belt… Every day is one reform after another. Your capacity to work is something to be encouraged by. There is no doubt you are the President of Nigeria for this time,” Gbajabiamila said.