Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for a stronger partnership between the government and the media, urging journalists to use constructive engagement and critical thinking to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking at the public presentation of the book “My Life and Journalists Hangout” and the 60th birthday celebration of veteran TV journalist Babajide Kolade-Otitoju in Abuja, Shettima emphasized that the health of any democracy depends on a vigilant and responsible press.
“A society is destroyed not by the absence of ideas but by the absence of men and women with the courage to interrogate ideas, to test them against reason, and to ask the difficult questions that save a people from the seduction of easy answers,” he said.
Shettima highlighted that democracy goes beyond elections and institutions, noting that the media plays a critical role in shaping public consciousness. He warned that unchecked narratives could erode truth, weaken public institutions, and make the media an “accomplice to confusion.”
The Vice President praised Kolade-Otitoju for his decades-long contribution to journalism, describing him as a symbol of “democratic courage” and intellectual rigour through his programme, Journalists’ Hangout. He lauded the journalist for fostering critical engagement, public accountability, and integrity throughout his career.
Shettima also stressed that critical thinking is vital for national development, helping to discipline public discourse, counter prejudice, and protect society from conspiracy theories fueled by ignorance and fear.
The event featured tributes from several dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, presidential spokesman Sunday Dare, broadcaster Gbenga Aruleba, and the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa. Attendees included Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Umo Eno, Agbu Kefas, Usman Ahmed Ododo, Babagana Zulum, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and former AGF Mohammed Adoke.
The book was praised by Prof. Kyari Mohammed as a comprehensive account of Kolade-Otitoju’s career across print and broadcast media, recommended for policymakers and media professionals alike.
