By At the 20th All Nigeria Editors Conference in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, President Bola Tinubu urged the media to maintain accountability over government officials to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy. Speaking on Tinubu’s behalf, Information Minister Mohammed Idris emphasized the intertwined roles of government and media, stressing the importance of mutual respect and collaboration to serve public interests. Tinubu noted that by viewing one another as allies, government and media can foster transparency and empower citizens, enhancing democratic institutions.
Reflecting on the conference theme, “Economic Growth and Development Strategies in a Resource-Rich Country,” Tinubu pointed to Nigeria’s resource wealth and the need to translate it into tangible growth. He highlighted his administration’s achievements over the past 18 months aimed at laying the foundation for a prosperous nation.
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri also addressed the gathering, acknowledging the media’s crucial role in democratic governance. He emphasized the need for integrity in journalism, which he said is foundational to public trust and a healthy democracy.
Chairman of the conference, Nduka Obaigbena, urged the government to activate the country’s four refineries to curb monopolistic practices in the oil sector. He challenged the Information Ministry to ensure the refineries are operational, stressing the importance of supporting reforms that benefit the most vulnerable.
Nigeria Guild of Editors President, Eze Anaba, voiced concerns over challenges to media survival, notably the availability of resources necessary for print and broadcast production. He also highlighted the pressure media organizations face in adapting to modern trends while remaining financially viable.
Other key discussions included a call by former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba for a committee to address the Nigeria Union of Journalists’ ongoing leadership dispute and a keynote speech from National Chamber of Commerce President Dele Kelvin, who identified resource mismanagement and stakeholder exclusion as significant challenges to Nigeria’s economy.
