President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian journalists to recommit to ethical journalism and actively promote national unity, democratic values, and responsible reporting. His message came during the 70th Anniversary celebration of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.
Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, President Tinubu emphasized that a vibrant, ethical press is vital for Nigeria’s democratic journey and national cohesion. He highlighted his administration’s historical and ongoing support for press freedom, urging media practitioners to focus on stories that showcase the country’s democratic achievements and developmental progress.
“The media must take the lead in telling the story of Nigeria’s democratic gains in governance reforms, infrastructure, and civic engagement,” Idris said, stressing the need for factual, balanced reporting in the digital era.
He warned of the growing threats posed by disinformation, fake news, and artificial intelligence tools such as deepfakes. In response, he announced the establishment of a UNESCO-partnered Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja—a pioneering initiative aimed at equipping journalists and the public with the tools for ethical media consumption and production.
Veteran journalist and former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, also addressed the gathering, calling for an overhaul of the NUJ membership database to identify and eliminate fake journalists. He warned that impostors threaten the credibility of the profession and urged a recommitment to professionalism.
“Our profession is under siege from partisan interference and ethical decline. We must stand firm for truth and accountability,” Osoba said, while encouraging journalists to embrace technological change without compromising on integrity.
NUJ President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, described the union’s seven-decade journey as a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic evolution. Reflecting on the NUJ’s history since its founding in 1955, he highlighted its pivotal role in advocating for journalists’ welfare, promoting press freedom, and chronicling Nigeria’s political and social transitions.
“Our 70th anniversary is not just a celebration—it’s a call to action,” Yahaya said. “We must double down on ethical standards, especially in times of insecurity and national tension.”
The event, themed “Celebrating Seven Decades of Journalistic Excellence,” drew key figures from government, media, and civil society. Awards were presented to governors and veteran journalists in recognition of media-friendly policies and lifetime contributions to journalism.
Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, Chair of the Organising Committee, hailed the event’s success and expressed gratitude to media partners and stakeholders who contributed to the celebration.
As Nigeria grapples with a complex media landscape shaped by technology and political challenges, the NUJ’s platinum jubilee served as a moment of reflection—and a renewed commitment to uphold journalism as a cornerstone of democracy and unity.
