Tinubu To Uphold Media Freedom, Respect Divergent Views 

Tinubu To Uphold Media Freedom, Respect Divergent Views 

At a meeting with the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) on Monday, President Bola Tinubu promised to uphold media freedom and respect for a diversity of opinions, even those critical of his government.

In a statement released by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu acknowledged concerns raised by members of the NPAN about the impact of existing regulations on their ability to access newsprint.

He expressed a willingness to consider any proposed changes to policies that affect the newspaper industry.

The President made it clear that he takes these issues seriously and is committed to working with the NPAN to find a solution.

”I care about what is going on in the country. I thank you for your support and opinions, even the criticism of our government. Without the support of some of you, I will not be standing here as president,” Tinubu said.

“You have held our feet to the fire, and we will continue to respect your opinions whether we agree or not. One thing I must say is that I read every paper, various opinions, and columnists.

”I promise you a very transparent government. We will try our best to draw water from a dry well and create a good economic environment that will serve the people.

“The future of our country is clear with committed investments in health, infrastructure, transportation, and education, among others. We have to take care of the poor.

“If we invest in our own children and leave the children of the poor, the children of neglect will attack your investments.”

Speaking at the same meeting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stressed the importance of a free and responsible media in Nigeria.

He made it clear that the Federal Government is committed to supporting a robust and diverse media landscape in the country.

The Minister’s remarks underscored the value of a free press and its role in promoting democracy and good governance.

The President of the NPAN and Chairman of Media Trust, Kabiru Yusuf, highlighted some of the key challenges facing the newspaper industry in Nigeria.

”Our particular concern is the newspaper industry, which employs thousands of Nigerians: journalists, marketers, distributors, administrators, and accountants.

“Newspapers are also part of the building blocks of democracy and reliable sources of information in a world that is overwhelmed by fake news,” Yusuf said.