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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima has pledged the Federal Government’s full support for the Nigerian Press Council’s ambitious national compendium on Nigeria’s economic and tourism potentials, while portraying President Bola Tinubu as a steadfast champion of press freedom.
According to a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President made the remarks at the Presidential Villa during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Nigeria Press Council (NPC), led by Executive Secretary and CEO Dili Ezughah.
He highlighted the Tinubu administration’s commitment to a harassment-free environment for journalists over the past three years.
“The President is a friend of the media. He used to assist them from his personal resources, with newsprints and other support mechanisms. He is also a publisher. So, he knows the ecosystem very well, and he believes in the independence of the press,” Shettima stated.
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“For the past three years, have you heard of any harassment of journalists? His tolerance threshold is so high that people who are making incendiary remarks are allowed to have their day for peace to reign in the country,” he added, noting Tinubu’s history of personally aiding media organisations despite provocative criticism.
Shettima endorsed the compendium, titled “Nigeria: Documenting the Economic and Tourism Profiles of the 36 states and the FCT,” as a vital tool to market Nigeria globally,” he said.
He promised to lobby the 36 state governors for buy-in, stressing their pivotal role.
“The sub-nationals own the land, own the people. Their role is very pivotal in really pushing this country forward,” Shettima emphasised.
Earlier, Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, had praised the initiative’s potential to boost tourism and creative sectors. She argued that documenting Nigeria’s cultural heritage, tourism sites, and creative hubs across all states and the FCT is essential for attracting investment and global recognition.
