Combat Misinformation, Defend Democracy, Tinubu Tells Editors

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerian editors to actively tackle the growing problem of misinformation and uphold responsible journalism, warning that the rise of social media has turned every citizen into a publisher.

The President made the call at the opening of the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC 2025) held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

President Tinubu warned that the development of every citizen becoming a “potential publisher” on social media poses serious risks to truth, national cohesion, and Nigeria’s democratic values.

He stressed that the unchecked spread of false information makes it increasingly difficult to differentiate between facts and propaganda, noting that the digital age has, unfortunately, also “weaponized ignorance.”

The President specifically urged the editors to champion responsible reporting and resist the tide of misinformation that could destabilize the country.

He encouraged constructive scrutiny, saying: “You can criticize the government, but do so with knowledge and fairness.”

Emphasizing the media’s critical role, President Tinubu called upon editors to act as the nation’s conscience, using their platforms to promote truth, discipline, and unity in the politically charged environment.

He cautioned against projecting a negative national image, stating, “What should be worrisome to you is the image of the country you project to the outside world. Your institution must build a nation of credibility and integrity that the world can respect.”

President Tinubu stressed that responsible journalism remains one of the strongest pillars of a functioning democracy.

He reminded editors to wield their influence with fairness and national responsibility, asserting that “Freedom of expression must strengthen, not sabotage, democracy.”

He cautioned that sensationalism and unverified content can easily erode public trust.