Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday described President Bola Tinubu as “a friend of the media” and a firm believer in press freedom, as the Federal Government pledged support for a major publication project by the Nigeria Press Council (NPC).

Shettima spoke at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while receiving a delegation from the NPC led by its Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Dili Ezughah, who briefed him on the Council’s proposed national compendium documenting the economic and tourism profiles of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Defending the administration’s democratic credentials, the Vice President said President Tinubu’s longstanding relationship with the media predates his time in office.

“The President is a friend of the media. He used to support media organisations from his personal resources, including the provision of newsprint and other assistance. He is also a publisher, so he understands the ecosystem and believes strongly in the independence of the press,” Shettima said.

He argued that the administration has maintained an atmosphere that allows journalists to operate without harassment, noting that even harsh criticism of government policies has been tolerated in the interest of national stability.

“For the past three years, have you heard of any harassment of journalists? His tolerance threshold is high. Even those making provocative and incendiary remarks are allowed to express themselves so that peace can reign,” he stated.

On the NPC’s proposed publication titled “Nigeria: Documenting the Economic and Tourism Profiles of the 36 States and the FCT,” the Vice President pledged federal backing and promised to mobilise support from state governors to ensure broad ownership of the project.

He stressed that sub-national governments play a pivotal role in economic development and would be central to the success of the initiative.

“The subnationals own the land and the people. Their role is pivotal in pushing this country forward,” he said.

Shettima expressed optimism that the compendium would enhance Nigeria’s global image, attract investment and boost tourism, noting that similar high-quality national publications are prominently displayed in airports and diplomatic missions in other countries.

Earlier, Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, described the publication as a strategic tool for promoting Nigeria’s tourism and creative industries, which she identified as key drivers of economic diversification.

She said documenting and presenting the country’s cultural heritage, tourism destinations and creative hubs in a structured format would improve visibility and investor confidence.

Also speaking, Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Mohammed Auwal Jatau, representing Governor Bala Mohammed, said states stand to benefit significantly from the project based on their respective tourism and economic strengths.

In his remarks, Dr. Ezughah thanked the Vice President for granting the delegation audience and sought presidential endorsement and strategic guidance for the compendium, describing it as a national branding effort aimed at showcasing Nigeria’s vast economic and tourism potential.