Governors Dapo Abiodun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu have urged media professionals to uphold democratic values and protect national integrity through responsible journalism.

The governors made the appeal during the 2025 Lateef Jakande Third Annual Memorial Lecture, organised by the Nigeria Guild of Editors in Lagos on Wednesday.

The lecture’s theme was ‘Journalism and the Challenges of Nation Building in a Multi-Ethnic Society’.

Mr Abiodun, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Abdulwaheed Odusile, said editors and content creators are today’s national voices shaping Nigeria’s path to progress.

He stated that democracy cannot flourish without a vibrant, responsible, and ethical press that is committed to the public interest and accountability.

He added that the media must renew its dedication to truth, fairness, investigative rigour, and national responsibility in its daily operations.

“Jakande showed that journalists can shape the nation, not merely document its problems,” the governor noted.

He urged journalists to reject sensationalism, political bias, and influence from non-state actors seeking to distort public discourse.

Mr Abiodun acknowledged the profession’s challenges: misinformation, digital upheaval, censorship, and security threats now endanger journalism’s core mission in Nigeria.

He reaffirmed his administration’s support for press freedom and pledged to maintain an environment that enables the media to thrive.

The governor praised editors for defending democratic values, especially during the nation’s military era when press freedoms were under attack.

He said, “Many among you risked lives, faced arrests, and endured detentions to protect liberty and national dignity. These sacrifices continue to guide Nigeria along the path of justice, equity, and truth.”

He further praised their commitment to the values Alh. Lateef Jakande stood for throughout his public and journalistic life.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, represented by the commissioner for information, Gbenga Omotosho, said Nigeria must urgently address fake news and information overload.

He stressed this was crucial as the country seeks visionary leadership, social equity, unity, and sustainable development.

Mr Sanwo-Olu described Jakande as a fearless journalist who used the power of the pen to drive national transformation.

He added, “Jakande turned ideas into action, and dreams into projects that directly touched the lives of ordinary people.”

He noted that governance requires sincerity, discipline, and a people-first mindset, not complex theories or rhetoric. From free education and low-cost housing to basic healthcare, Mr Jakande’s policies left a lasting legacy in Lagos.

Mr Sanwo-Olu described Mr Jakande’s 1979–1983 tenure as a model for inclusive, people-centered governance in Nigeria.

He urged today’s leaders to embrace governance reforms that deliver real results and honour Jakande’s legacy.

(NAN)