Speaking at the 2025 All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC) in Abuja — the first edition ever attended by a sitting President — Idris said Tinubu’s presence symbolized respect and solidarity with the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
“Mr. President’s life and leadership embody the same fortitude that has defined the Nigerian press from its earliest days. Like the media, he has stood firm in defence of truth, democracy, and the people’s right to be heard. His story and that of the Nigerian media are intertwined in resilience,” the Minister stated.
He reaffirmed that the Tinubu administration continues to view the media as a critical partner in national renewal, citing ongoing economic reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of the naira, and the forthcoming modernization of the tax system as steps toward long-term prosperity.
Idris assured that the administration remains committed to press freedom, noting that over 1,000 licensed radio and television stations currently operate across the country without intimidation or censorship. He emphasized that under President Tinubu, no media organization has been shut down or sanctioned for dissenting views.
“This is not by coincidence, but by conviction. The President understands, from personal experience, that a free and vibrant media is essential to democracy,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted Nigeria’s growing global reputation in media development, noting that the country’s hosting rights for the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMLI) mark a milestone positioning Nigeria as a leader in responsible communication and ethical journalism.
He urged editors to remain constructive partners in national progress by telling the Nigerian story with fairness, truth, and optimism, and to continue working with government to deepen democracy and uphold the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
