NUJ@70: Media crucial for national unity, democracy, says Tinubu
At the 70th Anniversary Gala of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized the essential role of the media in promoting national unity and democracy in Nigeria.
Speaking through Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohamned Idris, he called on journalists to recommit to ethical practices and contribute to nation-building efforts.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not just a friend of the media, but one whose democratic credentials were shaped in solidarity with Nigeria’s most courageous journalists,” Idris remarked, highlighting the president’s continued support for press freedom.
Urging media professionals to spotlight Nigeria’s democratic achievements, Idris stated, “The media must take the lead in telling the story of Nigeria’s democratic achievements, in governance reforms, infrastructure growth, civic engagement, and socio-economic development.”
He also addressed the growing threats of misinformation and disinformation, warning, “The rise of generative AI and deepfakes poses a direct challenge to credible journalism. In this era, ethical journalism is not just important, it is essential.”
Veteran journalist Chief Olusegun Osoba stressed the importance of tackling fake journalism, urging the government to verify NUJ members.
“We must identify and weed out those parading themselves falsely as journalists,” he asserted, warning that the future of the profession is at risk without maintaining professional standards.
NUJ President Comrade Alhassan Yahaya celebrated the union’s achievements over its 70-year history, stating, “Our 70th anniversary is more than just a commemoration of our past.
It is a rallying cry for the future we envision, a future rooted in ethical journalism and responsible innovation.” He encouraged journalists to uphold integrity as they navigate the challenges of the evolving media landscape.
Source: The Nation
