Vice President Kashim Shettima has underscored the need for a strengthened alliance between the Nigerian government and the media to enhance national progress. Speaking on Tuesday, Shettima expressed a deep commitment to a partnership that recognises media professionals as leaders and the country’s moral compass. Addressing the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) leadership’s leadership during their courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the Vice President advocated for a balanced and impactful collaboration to advance national unity and economic development.
In a statement by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima reiterated the government’s dedication to sustaining and supporting the media industry, often called the fourth estate of the realm. Shettima emphasised that the country’s governance should now precede political rivalries, signalling an era focused on national development. He encouraged editors to work collaboratively with the government, remarking on the unifying factors that surpass any political divides. Acknowledging the media industry’s financial challenges, Shettima expressed his empathy for the sector’s diminishing Revenue streams, pledging the government’s assistance to uphold the quality and independence of journalism in the country.
Editors were urged to uphold fairness and objectivity.
Also, the Vice President urged editors to maintain their essential role as watchdogs of democracy, advocating for fair and objective reporting to protect the country’s future. He appealed to media leaders to note the government’s achievements and constructively address its shortcomings to create a better nation for future generations. In response, Mr. Eze Anaba, President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and editor of Vanguard Newspaper, commended Vice President Shettima for his open approach to discussing the nation’s economic policies. As Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC), Shettima has proactively explained national economic direction and initiatives, according to Anaba.
Furthermore, he emphasised the media’s willingness to work with the government while preserving its independence, stating that the NGE values transparent governance and public accountability. Anaba also took the opportunity to announce the upcoming 20th Edition of the All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC), scheduled from November 7 to 9 in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. He noted that this conference will be an essential platform for addressing national issues, including economic stability, security, energy policies, and the media industry’s challenges.
The upcoming ANEC event will address critical issues facing the region.
After the meeting, Anaba addressed journalists, explaining that the Guild had briefed Shettima about the conference and its commitment to reinforcing democratic values within the nation. The Vice President’s attendance at the ANEC event and potential discussions with President Bola Tinubu are anticipated to promote further dialogue on national progress in governance and broadcasting freedom. Anaba affirmed that the Guild had used this opportunity to engage the Vice President in conversations about democracy, transparency, and the role of the press in shaping the future.
During his remarks, Iyobosa Uwugiaren, Secretary General of the NGE, clarified that their visit to the State House was intended to inform the Vice President about the themes and purpose of the upcoming ANEC. This year’s conference, Uwugiaren noted, would cover critical issues facing the region, including economic development, national security, and the state of the press. With the conference occurring at a pivotal time, Uwugiaren expressed confidence in the administration’s potential to play a constructive role in shaping these discussions. He expressed optimism that the conference would attract a broad cross-section of Nigerian media leaders and promote meaningful engagement on the country’s challenges and opportunities.
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Reflecting on the press’s commitment to democratic principles, Uwugiaren emphasised that the Guild is dedicated to holding the government accountable while remaining apolitical. He reiterated that the press’s role is to critically observe government actions and contribute to national discourse by reporting on developments that matter to citizens. This, he explained, reinforces the press’s role in championing democracy and promoting good governance. Shettima’s invitation to the President and the Vice President to attend the conference signifies the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between the government and the media.