President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong reminder to Nigerians about the critical importance of responsible social media use, highlighting the growing dangers posed by misinformation and the unchecked spread of false narratives online. He emphasized that while digital platforms empower citizens and enhance democratic engagement, they also have the potential to undermine truth, national unity, and the core values of Nigeria’s democracy if misused.
Addressing delegates at the 21st All Nigeria Editors Conference (ANEC 2025) held at the State House Conference Centre, Tinubu underscored how social media has transformed every individual into a potential publisher of information. While this democratization of information has positive aspects, he noted, it simultaneously amplifies the speed, reach, and impact of false or misleading content, which can destabilize society and erode public trust.
“Social media has made every citizen a potential publisher. This has benefits, but it also increases the speed and scale of misinformation. You can criticize the government, but do so with knowledge, fairness, and responsibility,” the President stressed, urging Nigerians to engage in constructive discourse rather than spreading unverified claims or sensationalist content.
He warned that the pervasive spread of false information makes it increasingly challenging to separate fact from fiction, noting that misinformation could damage Nigeria’s international image, weaken democratic institutions, and foster division among citizens. Tinubu’s comments serve as a call to action for both social media users and the press to prioritize accuracy, verification, and ethical standards in all forms of reporting.
Highlighting the essential role of media professionals in fostering national cohesion, Tinubu urged editors and journalists to uphold integrity, discipline, and credibility in their work. He stated, “Your institution must build a nation of credibility and integrity that the world can respect. Freedom of expression must strengthen governance, not sabotage it.”
Describing the current digital landscape as one that has “democratized information but weaponized ignorance,” Tinubu reminded both citizens and media houses that responsible reporting, fact-checking, and transparency are indispensable to preserving Nigeria’s unity and democratic values. He stressed that the freedom to publish carries a corresponding duty to ensure accuracy and fairness in content shared with the public.
The President’s remarks underscore the delicate balance between the benefits of social media and its potential risks. He emphasized that Nigerians must harness the power of digital platforms responsibly, ensuring that online criticism, commentary, and discussion are conducted in a manner that promotes accountability, education, and constructive engagement rather than spreading division or misinformation.
Ultimately, Tinubu called on all Nigerians to approach social media with discernment, to prioritize the pursuit of truth over rumor, and to use digital platforms to strengthen national unity, respect, and democratic governance. His message serves as a crucial reminder that in today’s interconnected world, freedom of expression must be exercised with fairness, integrity, and a sense of national responsibility.
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“Criticism Should Build Not Destroy; Help Project a Better Image of Nigeria” — President Tinubu Tells Nigerian Editors pic.twitter.com/tahwQwSfsI
— ARISE NEWS (@ARISEtv) November 12, 2025