President says press freedom comes with responsibility as he defends reforms, security efforts and economic recovery at inaugural State House Media Dinner.
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerian journalists to prioritise national interest over sensational reporting, warning that irresponsible coverage could undermine the country’s security and democratic progress.
Speaking at the inaugural Presidential Press Corps Dinner held at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu cautioned the media against becoming “megaphones” for terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups seeking to destabilise Nigeria.
According to the President, while freedom of expression and press freedom remain constitutional rights, they must be exercised with fairness, accuracy and responsibility.
He said journalists have a duty to provide context and help Nigerians understand government policies, stressing that professional journalism is more important than ever in the digital age.
“Freedom of expression is not freedom to defame. Freedom of the press is not freedom to mislead. Public trust is earned through fairness, accuracy and responsibility,” President Tinubu said.
The President defended the Cybercrimes Act, insisting it was designed to protect citizens against malicious falsehoods and digital abuse, not to suppress press freedom.
President Tinubu also highlighted what he described as the gains of his administration’s economic reforms, saying Nigeria’s economy is stabilising, public revenue has improved, foreign reserves have risen above $50 billion, investor confidence is returning, and the oil and gas sector is attracting fresh investments.
On security, he said 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 hostages and the recovery of communities previously under attack.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing every part of the country, adding that every Nigerian deserves to live and prosper in peace.
The dinner was attended by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, senior government officials, governors, ministers, media executives and members of the State House Press Corps.
During the event, several prominent Nigerians, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, industrialist Aliko Dangote, businessman Tony Elumelu, and other public officials, received awards in recognition of their contributions to national development. Former presidential spokesman Segun Adeniyi and veteran State House journalists were also honoured for their service to the media profession.