President Bola Tinubu has said that the democracy that Nigerians enjoy now would not have been possible without the media. He urged media practitioners to continue to hold elected and appointed government officials accountable in a manner that strengthens the nation’s democracy.
  
Speaking at opening ceremony of the All Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said his conclusion was based on the fact that he was privileged to be in the thick of the pro-democracy struggle, with a front-row view of how it played out.

“Indeed, in this room are many veteran journalists who played very important roles in ushering in the age of enduring democracy in Nigeria. I salute your individual and collective efforts not just at that time, but even right through to today, as we celebrate a quarter of a century of unbroken democratic experience,” he said.
   
President Tinubu noted that in any thriving democracy, the roles of the government and the media are intertwined, stressing that both are essential in serving the public interest.  

“And of course, the media has a duty to hold elected and appointed officials accountable, and ensure that we are doing our work in a manner that strengthens democracy – not weakens it. That important work must be done in a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration, not recrimination and opposition; this alignment enables us to achieve common goals that benefit society at large.
   
“Indeed, our roles are most effective when they are not adversarial but cooperative. By viewing each other as allies in nation-building, we can create an environment where transparency, accountability, and mutual respect thrive. Together, the government and the media can empower citizens, strengthen democratic institutions, and build a more informed and resilient society.
   
“As we gather to discuss a theme that is both timely and urgent – ‘Economic Growth and Development Strategies in a Resource-Rich Country’ – we find ourselves at a critical juncture in our nation’s journey toward sustainable growth and prosperity.

“Nigeria is richly endowed with human and natural resources that could place us among the world’s most prosperous nations. The age-old question, however, is: How do we translate these resources into meaningful growth and development?” he asked. The President said he has spent the last 18 months to lay the foundation for the compelling vision of a prosperous Nigeria. 

“That is what the Renewed Hope Agenda is all about – rekindling the faith and hope of all Nigerians in the ability of their country to flourish and to in turn provide an environment that allows everyone in it to flourish just as much.

“But we realise that there are some major obstacles standing in the way of the full unleashing of Nigeria’s abundant potentials. And we have spent time and energy and focus boldly tackling these,” he added.
  
The host governor, Senator Douye Diri, also underscored the significance of the media in democratic governance, noting that as the fourth pillar of democracy, the press educates, informs, and entertains, shaping public agenda and debate. He maintained that democracy relies heavily on the press to thrive.
   
“As ethnic nationalities and diverse interests vie for attention, your work serves as a beacon of hope, promoting understanding and unity. In these turbulent times around our nation and the world at large, your role as guardians of truth is more critical than ever.
  
“Integrity remains the cornerstone of your profession, building trust with the public and fortifying the foundations of a healthy democracy,” he said.  Diri observed that the theme of the conference is both relevant and timely. He added: “We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development. Our nation brims with abundant resources, yet poverty and underdevelopment persist across countless communities; a striking paradox.
  
“In Bayelsa State for instance, a major contributor to Nigeria’s oil and gas production, we face severe environmental challenges and economic hardship. For long we have been ignored, our stories dismissed, and our rights trampled. Yet we have decided not to be silenced or erased. ‘The time is always right to do what is right’, said Martin Luther King Jr.
  
“Two recent events have strengthened my resolve to drive a thoughtful and intentional dialogue about responsible resource management in our country.
When those who fund the press have significant influence over the content, it can compromise the press’s ability to report truthfully and hold those in power accountable.

“Lippmann’s own work, ‘A Test of the News’ co-authored with Charles Merz, highlighted the dangers of biased reporting and the importance of journalistic standards. They found that even reputable newspapers like The New York Times could fall prey to propaganda and misinformation.
  
“The press faces a daunting challenge: maintaining neutrality while ensuring financial sustainability. I don’t claim to have all the answers, and perhaps there isn’t a straightforward solution. However, I firmly believe it’s time for bold action. There is a moral imperative to find the right balance. I pray you find it.”
  
The governor noted that the state’s rich culture, indomitable spirit, and warm hospitality reflect the very essence of the people. Turning to the visitors, he said: “If you have not had our famous Keke fiyai (KKF) or the delectable roasted plantain and fish, your journey is not complete. I encourage you to take a little time to explore our beautiful environment and engage with our diverse communities.
 
 “Be assured that Bayelsa State takes great pride in hosting you. I wish you a fruitful and inspiring meeting, and may your deliberations contribute significantly to the advancement of our democracy.”