President Bola Tinubu has promised that his administration will always protect free speech in the media and value all viewpoints, regardless of whether they support or oppose his leadership.
The President made the pledge on Monday in Abuja during a meeting with members of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN).
Recognising concerns about current regulations impeding local access to newsprint, President Tinubu assured NPAN members in a statement issued by presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale that he would carefully consider their request for a review of policies affecting the newspaper industry.
”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.
Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, also spoke at the meeting and stated that the Federal Government is dedicated to creating a dynamic and responsible media environment in the nation.
On his part, Kabiru Yusuf, NPAN President and Chairman of Media Trust pointed out some of the challenges the newspaper industry is facing in the country.
”Our particular concern is the newspaper industry, which employs thousands of Nigerians: journalists, marketers, distributors, administrators, and accountants.
“In a world where fake news is rampant, newspapers are also essential components of democracy and trustworthy information sources,” Yusuf stated.
