He added that they must always remain watchdog of the community while adding that they must not the power of the media to emphasize the fault line of the people and government.
President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Nigerian journalists and media organization to rededicate themselves to their role as being watchdog of the society.
The President made the call to mark the 2019 commemoration of World Press Freedom Day.
Buhari in a statement signed by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, said media practitioners in Nigeria must constantly commit themselves to canons of fairness, accuracy, objectivity, balance, and other ideals that guide the profession.
He added that they must always remain watchdog of the community while adding that they must not the power of the media to emphasize the fault line of the people and government.
The President said: "On this occasion of World Press Freedom Day, I urge you to rededicate yourselves to the role of being watchdogs of society, while being mindful of the cohesion and equilibrium of that same society.
“There are always those who want to use the media to emphasize our fault lines as a people, dwell on primordial sentiments, and keep the country perpetually on the same spot. Be wary of such."
Buhari pledged his commitment to ensuring the media is free from intimidation and harassment.
“The government would continue to ensure that the media was not muzzled in any way, since democracy and freedom of expression were kindred spirits.
“Our administration is committed to the highest levels of transparency, and we will guarantee press freedom at all times. We only require that the freedom be used responsibly, and for lofty ideals of national unity and development," the President asserted.