President Bola Tinubu has urged the media to avoid serving as a platform for bandits and terrorists, stressing the need for responsible journalism as Nigeria continues efforts to address security challenges. The President made the appeal on Thursday while speaking at the maiden State House Press Corps Presidential Dinner held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Tinubu cautioned journalists against reporting that could inadvertently aid criminal groups or weaken national security, emphasising the media's role in promoting responsible and balanced coverage.
“The media must resist the temptation of becoming megaphones for terrorists and kidnappers.
“We must not undermine our country with irresponsible reporting. If we do, we will have no safe space left, especially at a time when our nation is tackling security threats, neutralising thousands of criminal elements, and rescuing hostages.
“The media should not become an amplifier for those who wish to harm us.
“The government must act, the media must watch, the government must explain, and the media must question,” he said.