Government, media must unite to move Nigeria forward – VP Shettima
…charges editors to be watchdogs and allies in nation-building
By Kunle Sanni
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for stronger collaboration between the government and the media to fulfill their shared responsibility for Nigeria’s national development.
Describing media leaders as the crème de la crème and conscience of the nation, he emphasized the need for a balanced partnership to drive national unity and economic growth.
Speaking on Tuesday during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the Nigerian Guild of Editors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the Vice President pledged the government’s support to ensure the sustainability of the fourth estate of the realm.
According to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Shettima noted that it is time to prioritize governance over political considerations and called for a partnership with the media.
“Let us work together for the nation. What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us. We are now in a period of governance, not politics,” he said.
The Vice President acknowledged the economic challenges facing the media and reiterated the government’s commitment to sustaining quality journalism.
“My heart bleeds for the Nigerian media because of the dwindling economic fortunes they face. Rest assured, we will do whatever it takes to support the media in continuing their work,” VP Shettima stated.
Insisting on balance and objectivity in reporting, he urged editors to maintain their role as watchdogs while supporting national development.
“When we do good, please commend us. When we go astray, guide us. We must salvage this nation, not for our own sake but for the sake of our children and grandchildren,” he emphasized.
In response, Mr. Eze Anaba, President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and Editor of Vanguard Newspaper, praised the Vice President’s commitment to transparent governance, particularly in explaining government economic policies as Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC).
“You have been prolific in discussing the state of the economy in your role as Chairman of the National Economic Council,” Anaba said.
He further emphasized the media’s readiness to partner with the government while maintaining its independence.
The NGE President also announced that the 20th Edition of the All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) is scheduled for November 7 to 9 in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
