The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called for the media collaboration with the government in upholding unity and promises of the Renewed Hope agenda.
Idris made the appeal at the 2025 All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) on Wednesday in Abuja.
The minister specifically urged the editors to remain constructive partners in national progress.
“This administration believes in the power of the media to shape perception and inspire hope.
“We invite you to engage, critique constructively, and join hands with government in deepening our democracy.
“The media and government must continue to work together to advance unity and uphold the promise of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
The minister said it is the first time that a sitting president attended the landmark editors’ annual event
According to him, President Bola Tinubu’s presence is a profound symbol of his respect and solidarity with the fourth estate of the realm.
He described President Tinubu as a true reflection of the resilience, courage, and enduring struggle that have defined the Nigerian media
“Mr President’s life and leadership embody the same fortitude that has defined the Nigerian press from its earliest days.
“Like the media, he has stood firm in defence of truth, democracy, and the people’s right to be heard.
“His story and that of the Nigerian media are intertwined in resilience,” Idris said.
The Minister noted that Tinubu’s administration has continued to show faith in the media as a partner in national renewal.
He highlighted the government’s ongoing reforms which included the removal of fuel subsidies, unification of the Naira, and the forthcoming modernisation of the tax system.
He added that these are part of a collective effort to reposition the nation’s economy for long-term prosperity.
“Tough but necessary decisions are being made to build a stronger nation. It worked in Lagos; with your fair and balanced reporting, it will work for Nigeria,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to press freedom, adding that over 1,000 licensed radio and television stations are currently operating across the country without intimidation or censorship.
He emphasised that under Tinubu’s leadership, no media organisation has been shut down or sanctioned for dissenting views.
“This is not by coincidence, but by conviction. The President understands, from personal experience, that a free and vibrant media is essential to democracy,” he said.
Idris also noted that Nigeria’s global recognition in the area of media development has continued to grow.
He cited the country’s hosting rights for the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMLI) as a milestone that would project Nigeria as a continental leader in responsible communication and ethical journalism.
Earlier, President of the Guild, Eze Anaba, had warned that the media sector was in distress.
He said many outlets were shutting down while others struggle with payment of workers’ salaries.
The Guild also called for the repeal of laws that inhibit press freedom.
The theme of the conference is, “Democracy, Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors”, held at the State House Conference Hall, Abuja.
A cross section of Guild Members at the opening ceremony on Wednesday
He lamented that the closures worsen unemployment by flooding the labor market with displaced media workers.
However in response to the crisis, the Guild called for the repeal of laws that inhibit press freedom.
Furthermore, Anaba solicited legislative and executive assistance to ensure media viability, specifically asking for a corporate tax relief period of about 10 years.
The NGE boss also called for tax exemption, the establishment of low-interest loans for the media, and a digital transformation and innovation fund.
