In a bid to bolster investor confidence and attract crucial investments for economic growth, President Bola Tinubu implored the media to play a pivotal role in projecting a positive image of Nigeria. The President’s sentiments were conveyed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the 19th All Nigeria Editors Conference organized by the Nigerian Guild of Editors in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.
Addressing the gathering, President Tinubu underscored the media’s significance as a primary source of information, emphasizing the impact of timely and accurate reporting on informed decision-making by businesses. He urged media professionals to contribute to fostering a conducive environment for growth by providing positive coverage that enhances investor confidence.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to stimulating economic growth, President Tinubu called for collaborative efforts from Media Editors in sustaining discussions aligned with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Despite acknowledging the immediate economic impact of fuel subsidy removal, he reassured the nation that his administration was implementing short and medium-term interventions to alleviate resulting challenges.
President Tinubu detailed various measures, including a provisional wage increment, the establishment of an Infrastructure Support Fund for States, a 100 billion Naira CNG bus rollout program, and the signing into law of the 2023 Supplementary Budget. He emphasized initiatives such as monthly Cash Transfers, the release of strategic reserves, and support for farmers to ensure both short-term relief and long-term benefits.
Against the backdrop of moral decline and erosion of national values, President Tinubu highlighted the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation’s efforts to reshape the narrative. A mass reorientation campaign is underway to foster unity, patriotism, and positive cultural values among Nigerians.
President Tinubu called on Media Editors to join forces in combating misinformation, disinformation, and false narratives that pose a threat to societal fabric. He urged responsible reporting, fact-checking, and the promotion of media and digital literacy as essential tools in this collective effort.
Commending the founding fathers of the NGE, led by the late Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, President Tinubu acknowledged their pivotal role in the country’s socio-political development. He lauded their contributions in steering Nigeria from military rule to achieving democratic governance.
