Tinubu Urges Nigerian Media to Prioritize National Interest Over Sensationalism

President Bola Tinubu has called upon Nigerian journalists to place national interest above sensational reporting, warning that irresponsible coverage poses a significant threat to the country's security and democratic advancement. Speaking at the inaugural Presidential Press Corps dinner, Tinubu urged the media not to amplify the voices of those aiming to divide the nation or destabilize it.

“

I made a commitment at the inauguration that I will do everything possible in my power to be consistent with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"We will have no safe space left if we do," Tinubu stated, addressing the potential consequences of unchecked reporting. He emphasized that at a time when Nigeria is actively confronting security threats and neutralizing criminal elements, the media should not serve as an amplifier for malicious actors. The president stressed that freedom of expression comes with responsibilities, particularly in the current climate.

“

You and I promise one another that we must not undermine our country with irresponsible reporting. We will have no safe space left if we do.

Tinubu also highlighted the importance of professional journalism in the digital age, urging the media to "choose fact over falsehood, substance over sensation and credibility over clickbait." He clarified that freedom of speech and press freedom, while fundamental to democracy, do not extend to defamation or misleading the public. The President defended existing laws, such as the Cybercrimes Act, as measures to protect citizens from digital abuses rather than to stifle press freedom.

“

At the 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.