Tinubu Urges Media to Shun Terror Propaganda, Uphold Responsible Journalism
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian journalists to avoid giving publicity to terrorists and other criminal groups through irresponsible reporting, stressing that the media must remain committed to truth, accuracy and professionalism.
Speaking on Thursday at the maiden State House Press Corps Dinner in Abuja, the President said the press should not become a platform for individuals or groups seeking to destabilise the country. He noted that while Nigeria continues to confront security challenges, the media has a critical responsibility to ensure its reports do not inadvertently aid those spreading fear or misinformation.
Tinubu reaffirmed his long-standing support for press freedom but maintained that freedom of expression comes with responsibility. According to him, journalists must prioritise verified facts over sensational headlines, clickbait and the race for social media engagement.
The President also expressed concern over the growing spread of misinformation, disinformation, deepfakes, voice cloning and other forms of AI-generated false content. He urged media practitioners to remain vigilant and avoid circulating unverified information capable of threatening national security or misleading the public.
Describing the relationship between government and the media as essential to democracy, Tinubu said healthy tension between both institutions is necessary. He explained that while government is responsible for governance and policy implementation, the media serves the public by scrutinising those in power and demanding accountability.
On existing regulations, Tinubu said laws such as the Cybercrimes Act are designed to protect citizens from cyberstalking, identity theft and malicious falsehoods, insisting they are not intended to suppress press freedom but to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s information space.
The President also highlighted what he described as gains recorded by his administration, saying economic reforms are beginning to stabilise the economy through stronger public revenues, improved investor confidence, increased foreign reserves and renewed investments in the oil and gas sector.
On security, he stated that intensified military operations, improved intelligence gathering and stronger collaboration among security agencies have led to the neutralisation of thousands of terrorists and criminal elements, the rescue of numerous hostages and the recovery of previously threatened communities.
Tinubu concluded by urging the media and government to strengthen their partnership in nation-building while preserving the watchdog role of the press, calling on journalists to promote truth, professionalism and responsible reporting in the interest of Nigeria’s democracy and national development.
