Tinubu Praises Olusegun Adeniyi’s Insecurity Column, Urges Media to Uphold Professionalism

By Nafiu Muhammad Lema

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended veteran journalist Olusegun Adeniyi for his recent newspaper column on Nigeria’s security challenges, describing it as a well-researched and insightful analysis.

Speaking at the maiden State House Press Corps Dinner in Abuja on Thursday, the President said he carefully read Adeniyi’s July 2 article, “Guns, Gold and a Nation Besieged,” and was impressed by its depth.

“I read everything. I still have a copy on my desk. It is a very rich outline. Thank you very much,” Tinubu said.

The President acknowledged that the media and government often have differing perspectives but stressed that such a relationship is vital to sustaining democracy. He noted that while governments are expected to govern and explain their actions, the media has a responsibility to scrutinise, question and hold public officials accountable.

“The government must act, the media must watch. The government must explain, the media must question and bark when necessary. It is this healthy tension that strengthens our republic,” he stated.

Tinubu also highlighted what he described as the changing tone of media coverage, recalling how one newspaper praised economic growth one day before reporting that the economy was struggling the next.

The President further mentioned a recent column by Lanre Babalola on the power challenges around Shiroro Dam, assuring Nigerians that his administration is addressing the concerns raised.

“You can blow hot and cold within 24 hours. However, you can be rest assured that our economy is doing well. We are out of the dark tunnel of uncertainty,” he said.

He concluded by encouraging journalists to continue performing their watchdog role responsibly, urging them to maintain accuracy, professionalism and thorough fact-checking in their reporting. “You must do your homework,” Tinubu added.