The Federal Capital Territory Police Commissioner, Ajao Adewale, has appealed to Nigerian media to build rather than destroy the country.
Adewale disclosed this in his speech at the 2025 Easter Cantata Concert organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ`, FCT Council in Abuja on Tuesday.
The CP took the opportunity to appeal to media practitioners in the nation's capital to uphold responsible, responsive, and developmental journalism rather than that which destroys the country.
“Information is power. It can be used positively or negatively. One sentence, just a phrase, can either create peace or ignite conflict,”; Adewale cautioned. “That is why I appeal to you: let us continue to practice responsible, responsive journalism — the kind that is proactive and developmental.”;
He likened the challenges faced by journalists to those of security operatives. “The people that keep us informed, the people that enlighten us, we salute you. We understand the danger your job entails. Sometimes, you hold information that could help the nation but may also threaten certain interests. That makes you vulnerable.”;
While acknowledging the importance of press freedom, he urged journalists to use that freedom judiciously. “Yes, freedom of speech is guaranteed by the Constitution. But we must use that freedom to build, not destroy. Whether you're pushing the pen, printing the news, or pulling the trigger, it must be for the development of the nation.”;
Also speaking, the National President of the NUJ, Alhaji AlHassan Abdullahi, called on journalists to imbibe the spirit of togetherness and forgiveness.
He said, “As journalists, let's imbibe the spirit of forgiveness. Let us use this opportunity to pray for our nation. Let's prioritise national interest and national security. Nigeria is our only nation.”
In her welcome address, Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, reflected on the significance of Easter and the concert’s theme, calling for renewed commitment to nation-building.
“These are not just spiritual concepts but also powerful tools for societal transformation,”; she said. “Unity is the foundation upon which progress is built. It is the glue that holds us together, allowing us to face challenges with strength and resilience.”;
Earlier, Hon. Leke Abejide, Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise and Member representing Yagba Federal Constituency, emphasised the need for courageous and visionary leadership, especially in navigating difficult reforms aimed at economic recovery and national development.
“A leader must be willing to step on toes and do things that may produce some bitter experience at the beginning,”; Abejide stated. “But the eventual and ultimate result would be a glorious end and light at the end of the tunnel. As the Yoruba adage says, ‘Adun lon gbeyin ewuro’—the end result of a bitter leaf, after squeezing and tasting it, is sweetness.”;
Recall that the federal government on as Easter holidays.
