The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Wednesday portrayed President Bola Tinubu as a symbol of the resilience, courage, and persistent struggle that have characterised the Nigerian media throughout the nation’s democratic journey.

Addressing the 2025 All Nigeria Editors Conference in Abuja, where a sitting president attended for the first time, Idris said Tinubu’s attendance reflected profound respect and solidarity with the Fourth Estate.

“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,” the Minister said.

A statement from his Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, noted that Idris emphasised how President Tinubu’s government continues to trust the media as a partner in national renewal.

Idris cited government initiatives such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of the naira, and the upcoming modernisation of the tax system as measures aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s economy for sustainable growth.

“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,” Idris told the editors.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to press freedom, he highlighted that over 1,000 licensed radio and television stations operate nationwide without fear of intimidation or censorship.

He stressed that no media organisation has been closed or penalised for dissenting opinions under Tinubu’s leadership.

“This is not by coincidence, but by conviction. The President understands, from personal experience, that a free and vibrant media is essential to democracy,” the Minister said.

Idris also pointed to Nigeria’s increasing recognition in global media development, including hosting the International Media and Information Literacy Institute, positioning the country as a leader in ethical journalism and responsible communication in Africa.

He encouraged editors to remain constructive partners in national development and to report the Nigerian story with fairness, truth, and optimism.

“This administration believes in the power of the media to shape perception and inspire hope. We invite you to engage, to critique constructively, and to join hands with the 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 added.

Earlier, Tinubu urged editors at the event to foster national cohesion and exercise their gatekeeping responsibilities with wisdom, fairness, and a sense of duty as his administration implements challenging reforms.

The President framed the press as a historic engine of national awakening, recalling newspapers that opposed colonial injustices and journalists who endured intimidation and detention under military rule to keep hope alive.

He said these sacrifices form the foundation of today’s democracy and called for a renewed commitment to the values that protect the public good.

He stated, “Yet, freedom secured through struggle is not self-sustaining.

“A democracy is sustained not only by elections and laws, but also by the integrity of public conversation.

“As editors and managers of the national information space, you shape narratives. You influence public understanding.”