The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a true reflection of the resilience, courage, and enduring struggle that have defined the Nigerian media through the country’s democratic evolution.
Speaking this Wednesday at the 2025 All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) in Abuja, a landmark event that, for the first time, was attended by a sitting President, the Minister said the President’s presence was a profound symbol of respect and solidarity with the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
He said: “Mr. President’s life and leadership embody the same fortitude that has defined the Nigerian press from its earliest days. Like the media, he has stood firm in defence of truth, democracy, and the people’s right to be heard. His story and that of the Nigerian media are intertwined in resilience.”
Idris noted that Tinubu’s administration has continued to show faith in the media as a partner in national renewal. He highlighted the government’s ongoing reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of the naira, and the forthcoming modernisation of the tax system, as part of a collective effort to reposition the nation’s economy for long-term prosperity.
“Tough but necessary decisions are being made to build a stronger nation. It worked in Lagos; with your fair and balanced reporting, it will work for Nigeria,” he told the gathering of editors.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to press freedom, he disclosed that over 1,000 licensed radio and television stations are currently operating across the country without intimidation or censorship.
He emphasised that under Tinubu’s leadership, no media organisation has been shut down or sanctioned for dissenting views.
“This is not by coincidence, but by conviction. The President understands, from personal experience, that a free and vibrant media is essential to democracy,” he stated.
The Minister also posited that Nigeria’s global recognition in the area of media development has continued to grow, citing the country’s hosting rights for the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMLI) as a milestone that will project Nigeria as a continental leader in responsible communication and ethical journalism.
He urged Nigerian editors to remain constructive partners in national progress, encouraging them to tell the Nigerian story with fairness, truth, and optimism.
“This administration believes in the power of the media to shape perception and inspire hope. We invite you to engage, to critique constructively, and to join hands with government in deepening our democracy,” he said, adding that the media and government must continue to work together to advance unity and uphold the promise of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
