By Joy Odor
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized the crucial role of the Nigerian media in promoting national unity, strengthening democracy, and shaping the country’s future.
Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohamned Idris the President urged journalists to recommit to ethical journalism and nation-building during the 70th Anniversary Gala, Award Night, and Book Presentation of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Tinubu stressed the media’s importance in fostering national unity and strengthening democracy, encouraging journalists to spotlight Nigeria’s democratic gains and progress stories.
The President highlighted the growing threats of fake news, disinformation, and artificial intelligence’s disruptive influence on journalism, emphasizing that ethical journalism is essential in this era.
The Federal Government, in partnership with UNESCO, is establishing a Category-2 Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja to promote media responsibility and literacy in the digital age.
Veteran journalist, Chief Olusegun Osoba called on the Federal Government and NUJ leadership to tackle the menace of fake journalism, suggesting an updated database of genuine NUJ members to weed out impostors.
Osoba urged journalists to adapt to digital media, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and integrity in the face of digital challenges.
NUJ President, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to press freedom and constitutional democracy, encouraging journalists to maintain ethical standards, particularly in conflict reporting.
The NUJ celebrated its 70-year journey, marking a testament to professionalism, patriotism, and the power of journalism to shape national development.
Awards were conferred on selected state governors for their media-friendly policies and peace-building initiatives, while seasoned journalists received plaques of honour for their lifetime contributions.
