'Tinubu Is a Friend, Ally of the Media' – Shettima Assures Journalists

Shettima assures journalists of Tinubu’s support for press freedom.
NUJ seeks legal reforms, safety guarantees, and financial support for media houses.
Government pledges continued partnership to sustain democracy and economic stability.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains a steadfast ally of the Nigerian media.

Shettima gave this assurance on Wednesday while hosting the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Vice-President said Tinubu has consistently demonstrated support for the media over the years and will continue to protect and advance the journalism profession in Nigeria.

He noted that the President values the integrity of journalism and believes in a free press as a cornerstone of democracy.

Shettima described journalists as the “lifeline of the nation,” stressing that the government cannot afford to suppress or intimidate them. He added that the media and judiciary share similar responsibilities in upholding accountability and justice in society.

“In President Bola Tinubu, you have a friend and ally who has always stood by the media,” Shettima said. “This administration will promote and protect the interests of journalists because democracy cannot survive without them.”

The Vice-President acknowledged the economic challenges confronting the media, especially issues of unpaid salaries and poor funding. He assured the NUJ that the government would continue to support the union and ensure the survival of the profession.

Shettima also defended the government’s decision to remove fuel subsidies, describing it as a necessary move for the nation’s long-term economic stability. He reiterated that the administration is committed to repositioning the economy for the benefit of all Nigerians.

Earlier, NUJ National President Alhassan Abdullahi urged the government to strengthen press freedom and decriminalise libel laws that restrict journalistic work.

He called for a national safety protocol for journalists, government-backed training grants, soft loans, and tax relief to support struggling media organisations.

Abdullahi also proposed the creation of a permanent government-media liaison platform under the Vice-President’s office to promote regular engagement and prevent misinformation.

While pledging support for Tinubu’s reform agenda, the NUJ president maintained that the media would continue to hold leaders accountable in defence of democracy.