VP Shettima Urges Media To Combat Fake News, Uphold Ethical Standards

Vice President Kashim Shettima has stated that the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is on the right track to restoring Nigeria’s greatness.
According to him, with shared commitment, mutual respect, and open dialogue, Nigerians can look forward to a brighter future.
He did, however, emphasise the importance of the media in achieving this goal, calling for collaboration and a shared commitment to national progress.
Senator Shettima, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, emphasised the critical role of the media as “watchdogs, truth-seekers, and the voice that informs and empowers our citizens” at the Sun Newspapers Awards in Lagos over the weekend.
In his speech titled “Celebrating Excellence, Building Together: Our Commitment To Press Freedom And Media Development In Nigeria,” the Vice President emphasised the media’s ability to shape narratives, promote public discourse, and hold institutions accountable.
“Tonight, we recognise not only the outstanding work of individual journalists but also the media’s collective contribution to Nigeria’s progress. As collaborative partners, you can shape narratives, promote public discourse, and hold institutions accountable. “Your commitment to investigative journalism, balanced reporting, and fact-checking is critical for a healthy democracy,” he said.
VP Shettima advocated for media-government collaboration and mutual respect, emphasising the importance of the media holding the government accountable, as well as transparency and open access to information to foster an environment in which journalists can work freely and safely.
He also emphasised President Tinubu’s commitment to a vibrant press, stating that “a free and independent media is essential for a healthy democracy.”
While promoting press freedom, VP Shettima urged the media to adhere to ethical standards, fact-check information, and avoid sensationalism to combat the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation.
The Vice President emphasised the federal government’s recent progress, which included economic reforms, addressing security concerns, and investing in infrastructure. He cited the removal of fuel subsidies as having positive results with increased federal allocations to states, despite initial challenges.
“The government is launching the Pulaku Initiative, a large-scale resettlement programme aimed at resolving the root causes of farmer-herder conflicts. The initiative will revitalise the affected communities by constructing homes, roads, schools, and other necessary infrastructure. I formed a steering committee to oversee the initiative’s implementation to fulfil President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise to improve the lives of all Nigerians,” the Vice President stated.
He also praised journalists’ sacrifices and expressed the government’s commitment to collaborating with the media to create a better future for all Nigerians.
Senator George Akume, the event’s Chairman and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), also spoke at the event, assuring Nigerians that the country’s economic woes would soon be behind them.
He stated that while nation-building is a collaborative effort, citizens must band together to support the government’s efforts to build a truly great Nigeria.
The SGF stated, “The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will remain steadfast in its commitment to building a brighter future for all Nigerians under the Renewed Hope Agenda. While progress may appear slow at times, the vision for a better tomorrow remains steadfast. We will quickly overcome the current economic challenges.”