Tinubu Urges Media To Put Nigeria First, Avoid Amplifying Terrorists At Inaugural State House Press Corps Dinner

Tinubu urges media to put Nigeria first, avoid amplifying terrorists at inaugural State House Press Corps dinner President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the Nigerian media to prioritise national interest in their reporting and avoid actions that could inadvertently amplify the activities or propaganda of terrorist groups.

The President made the appeal during the inaugural Stat-e House Press Corps dinner, where he engaged journalists covering the Presidency in a more informal setting aimed at strengthening relations between the executive arm of government and the media. Tinubu said the media plays a critical role in shaping public perception and national stability, stressing that responsible reporting is essential in a country still confronting security challenges across several regions. He urged journalists to exercise caution in the framing and dissemination of security-related reports, warning that sensational or unverified coverage could be exploited by violent groups seeking attention or legitimacy. The President acknowledged the importance of press freedom in a democratic society but emphasised that such freedom must be exercised with responsibility, especially when reporting on terrorism, insurgency, and other national security threats. He said the Nigerian media remains a vital partner in governance and nation-building, adding that the government values constructive criticism that helps strengthen institutions and improve accountability.

Tinubu also encouraged reporters to verify information before publication and to avoid narratives that could heighten fear or undermine public confidence in security operations. According to the President, Nigeria’s challenges require unity of purpose across all sectors, including government, civil society, and the media. He stressed that national security efforts would be more effective when all stakeholders work together toward shared goals. He reiterated that journalists should see themselves as partners in the collective effort to protect the country, rather than as adversaries of the state. The inaugural dinner brought together senior journalists, editors, and correspondents accredited to cover the Presidency, providing an opportunity for direct engagement between the media and top government officials. Officials described the event as part of efforts to improve transparency, foster mutual understanding, and create a more structured channel of communication between the State House and the press corps. The President’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about media coverage of insecurity and the broader role of journalism in conflict-sensitive reporting.

The comments are expected to generate discussions within media circles about the balance between national security considerations and press freedom, particularly in a complex security environment. Journalists and media organisations continue to play a central role in covering Nigeria’s security situation, often navigating the challenge of reporting accurately while avoiding the spread of fear or misinformation.