Vice President Kashim Shettima recently addressed Nigeria's editors at the 22nd All Nigeria Editors' Conference in Enugu, emphasizing the significance of the media in Nigeria's democratic journey. He acknowledged the historic role of journalists in promoting public debate and accountability, often at personal cost. Shettima's message was straightforward: Nigeria's democracy owes much to the media, and it is essential to continue scrutinizing government actions.
Shettima also urged the media to tell the "full story" of Nigeria, including areas where progress is being made. He cited economic indicators, such as 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. These indicators demonstrate the government's efforts to improve the economy.
However, Shettima's message also emphasized that economic statistics must be connected to human experience. He acknowledged that the real test of economic growth is its impact on the cost of living and the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians. The Vice President's admission highlights the importance of responsible journalism in conveying the human side of economic stories.
The media's role in scrutinizing government actions is crucial, but it must be done with accuracy. Shettima acknowledged that government and the media will not always agree, and that is a healthy aspect of democracy. A free press cannot serve as a government's public relations department, nor should it be trapped in political confrontation, ignoring positive developments.
The information environment has changed dramatically, with social media transforming everyone into a citizen journalist and potential publisher. This shift poses challenges for traditional journalism, as rumors and manipulated information can spread quickly. The media must adapt to these changes while maintaining professional independence and fact-based reporting.
Abdulkarim Abdulmalik, an Abuja-based journalist, wrote that Nigeria needs a fact-based public conversation. The media's role in promoting evidence-based discussion is essential, and criticism should be supported by facts. Praise and claims should also be verified, and government statistics should be interrogated, not automatically accepted or rejected.
Ultimately, the media's role in Nigeria's democracy is multifaceted. Journalists must balance scrutiny of government actions with accurate reporting on progress made. By doing so, they can promote a nuanced understanding of the country's challenges and successes, ultimately contributing to a more informed public conversation.
Key points
- The media plays a crucial role in Nigeria's democracy, promoting public debate and accountability.
- Vice President Shettima emphasized the need for the media to tell the "full story" of Nigeria, including areas of progress.
- The media must adapt to the changing information environment, maintaining professional independence and fact-based reporting.
