Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the need for a more robust collaboration between the government and media in advancing Nigeria’s national development.

Recognizing media leaders as the nation’s elite and moral compass, he advocated for a balanced partnership aimed at fostering national unity and driving economic progress.

During a courtesy visit from the leadership of the Nigerian Guild of Editors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, Shettima, through his spokesperson Stanley Nkwocha, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the sustainability of the media as a vital component of democracy.

The Vice President highlighted the importance of prioritizing governance over political agendas, urging for a cooperative relationship with the media. “Let’s unite for the benefit of our nation. The factors that unite us are far greater than those that divide us. We are now in a phase of governance, not politics,” he stated.

Shettima acknowledged the economic difficulties facing the media and expressed the government’s dedication to supporting quality journalism. “It pains me to see the challenges that the Nigerian media is currently facing. You have my assurance that we will do everything possible to assist the media in fulfilling their essential role,” he affirmed.

He called for balance and objectivity in media reporting, encouraging editors to continue acting as vigilant watchdogs while simultaneously contributing to national growth.

“When we accomplish something good, please acknowledge it. And when we stray off course, steer us back because we must work together to save this nation, not for ourselves, but for future generations,” he emphasized.