KEY POINTS

• Shettima urges media to support national development with objectivity.
• Government commits to sustaining quality journalism amid economic challenges.
• Nigerian Guild of Editors conference to focus on media growth strategies.

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday emphasized the need for balance and objectivity in media coverage, urging journalists to maintain their role as watchdogs of society while contributing to Nigeria’s national development.

Shettima calls for balanced reporting and national unity

He made these remarks during a meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, who visited him at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

In a statement issued by the Vice President’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima underscored the importance of a collaborative relationship between the government and media. The statement, titled “Government, Media Must Unite to Move Nigeria Forward – VP Shettima,” highlighted Shettima’s view of media leaders as the “conscience of the nation” and called for a balanced partnership to drive national unity and economic growth.

“When we do good, please commend us. When we are going astray, guide us because we have to salvage this nation, not for our own sake but for the sake of our children and grandchildren,” Shettima said. He further stressed that journalists play an essential role in holding leaders accountable while also fostering a constructive partnership to ensure Nigeria’s progress.

Shettima emphasized the need to focus on governance over political interests, advocating for unity in addressing the country’s challenges. “Let us work together for the nation. What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us,” he noted. Shettima added that the government would do its part to support the sustainability of the “fourth estate of the realm” by addressing the financial and operational struggles currently facing Nigeria’s media sector.

Expressing concern for the economic challenges that have impacted news organizations across the country, Shettima pledged government assistance in ensuring the resilience of the press. “My heart bleeds for the Nigerian media because of the dwindling economic fortunes they face. Rest assured that we will do whatever it takes to support the media in continuing their work,” he said.

Nigerian Guild of Editors to host conference on media strategies

Responding to Shettima’s remarks, Nigerian Guild of Editors President Eze Anaba, who is also the Editor of Vanguard newspaper, expressed appreciation for Shettima’s transparency, particularly in his role as Chairman of the National Economic Council. Anaba commended the Vice President’s proactive approach in explaining economic policies and reassured him of the media’s readiness to partner with the government while maintaining their independence.

Anaba also announced that the 20th All Nigeria Editors Conference will be held Nov. 7-9 in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, bringing together media professionals to discuss strategies for advancing journalism and supporting Nigeria’s development.