Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has stressed the crucial role of journalism in nation-building, citing the legacy of Lateef Jakande, a renowned journalist and former Governor of Lagos State.

According to him, democracy cannot thrive without a vibrant and responsible press, adding that a free and responsible press is essential for sustaining democracy, promoting transparency, and holding leaders accountable.

Speaking on Wednesday at the 3rd Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture organised by the Nigeria Guild of Editors, Abiodun noted Jakande’s remarkable achievements in governance, including free education policies, low-cost housing schemes, and grassroots healthcare delivery.

The governor stressed that journalism is not just about breaking news but about breaking cycles of poverty, ignorance, corruption, and authoritarianism.

He urged journalists to resist the temptations of sensationalism, partisanship, and undue influence from non-state actors, while renewing their commitment to truth, fairness, investigative depth, and patriotic duty.

Abiodun acknowledged the challenges facing journalism in Nigeria, including misinformation, digital disruption, censorship, and safety risks.

He, however, assured that his administration in Ogun State is committed to fostering an enabling environment that protects and promotes the work of journalists.

The governor noted Ogun State’s strides in promoting media freedom and access to information, emphasising transparency, accountability, and open governance.

He called for strengthened press freedom, improved welfare for journalists, and adherence to the highest ethical standards in the media.

Abiodun emphasised the importance of visionary leadership, economic transformation, social justice, and national unity, while harnessing the power of digital media for the greater good and promoting responsible citizenship.

He said: “During his (Jakande) era, the role of the media evolved beyond that of a mere watchdog to become a dynamic agent of national development. At its best, journalism is not just about breaking news; it is about breaking cycles of poverty, ignorance, corruption, and authoritarianism.

“As a government, we recognise that democracy cannot thrive without a vibrant and responsible press. However, the media must also renew its commitment to truth, fairness, investigative depth, and patriotic duty. As Jakande exemplified, journalists can be nation-builders, not just narrators of national woes. You must resist the temptations of sensationalism, partisanship, and undue influence from non-state actors.

“Nonetheless, I am mindful of the many challenges journalism faces in Nigeria today. The spread of misinformation, digital disruption, censorship, and safety risks threaten the very fabric of your noble profession. As leaders, we understand the pivotal role journalists play in sustaining democracy, and we remain committed to fostering an enabling environment that protects and promotes your work.”