The presidency has criticised a popular national newspaper over its recent editorial suggesting that Nigeria is on the verge of collapse under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Public Communications, described the editorial as “alarmist” and “unpatriotic”.
He said it was irresponsible for the newspaper to declare Nigeria a failed state without acknowledging the efforts of the current administration to stabilise the economy and improve security.
His words: “The editorial is not only misleading but also a deliberate attempt to undermine the achievements of the Tinubu administration.
“We understand the role of the media in holding government accountable, but spreading falsehood and fear is not journalism — it is propaganda.”
He said President Tinubu inherited a country already in crisis, and that it was unfair to blame him for challenges that predated his government.
Dare urged the media to support the federal government’s efforts and “not be complicit in stoking panic among citizens”.
“We call on responsible journalism. Nigeria is not collapsing. We are building back,” he said.