Vice President Kashim Shettima recently spoke at the 22nd All Nigeria Editors' Conference in Enugu, highlighting the crucial role of journalism in Nigeria's democratic journey. He acknowledged the significant contributions of journalists and editors in promoting public debate and accountability, often at great personal cost. Shettima's message was straightforward: Nigeria's democracy owes much to the press, but the media must continue to scrutinize government while telling the full story of the country's progress.
Shettima cited economic indicators to support the government's case, including a 4.43% economic growth in the second quarter of 2026, compared to 4.23% in the same quarter of 2025. Agriculture, manufacturing, oil and gas, and services all recorded growth, and inflation has moderated from earlier levels. However, the Vice President acknowledged that the real test lies in the impact of these improvements on the cost of living and the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians.
The Vice President's address emphasized the need for responsible journalism that connects economic statistics to human experiences. He urged editors to encourage reporters to investigate the effects of economic growth on various sectors, such as farmers, manufacturers, and young job seekers. This approach would help to turn economic reporting into meaningful journalism that resonates with the public.
Shettima also acknowledged that government and the media will not always agree, which is a healthy aspect of democracy. He emphasized the importance of professional independence, fact-based criticism, and verified claims. The media should not serve as a government public relations department, nor should it be trapped in political confrontation that ignores positive developments.
The information environment has changed dramatically, with social media platforms transforming everyone into a potential publisher. Editors now face the challenge of determining what Nigerians understand to be true, and they must exercise this responsibility carefully. The public needs journalism that distinguishes between fact and allegation, evidence and assertion, analysis and propaganda.
Shettima's defence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's economic reforms illustrates the need for balance in reporting. The administration argues that difficult reforms are necessary for macroeconomic stability and long-term growth, while critics focus on the immediate consequences for households and businesses. A serious newsroom must navigate these complexities to provide citizens with enough information to make informed judgments.
Ultimately, Nigeria needs a fact-based public conversation, and the media plays a critical role in fostering this dialogue. By scrutinizing government, telling the full story, and connecting economic statistics to human experiences, journalists can promote accountability, transparency, and informed decision-making. The media must continue to serve as a watchdog, ensuring that power is exercised responsibly and that citizens' voices are heard.
Key points
- Vice President Kashim Shettima urges journalists to tell the 'full story' of Nigeria's progress.
- The media must balance scrutiny of government with accurate reporting of positive developments.
- Nigeria needs a fact-based public conversation, and the media plays a critical role in fostering this dialogue.
