Tinubu ready to work with press to strengthen democracy, build prosperous nation – Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, says President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to working with the media to deepen democracy and build a safe, united, and prosperous nation.

Malagi stated this at the inauguration of a new online newspaper, Pinnacle Daily, established by Pinnacle Digital Resources Ltd., on Wednesday in Abuja.

The minister, represented by the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Press Council, Dr Dili Ezughah, congratulated the management of Pinnacle Digital Resources for introducing the new platform.

He said the initiative came at a crucial time in Nigeria’s democratic journey, describing it as a demonstration of faith in the role of journalism in national development.

“In carrying out your important role as purveyors of information for mass consumption, always remember the need to adhere to the ethics and codes of our noble profession.

“Truth, fairness, justice, and social responsibility must be evident in your work at all times,” Malagi added.

Delivering the keynote address titled “Economics of Media Business: Understanding Revenue Models and Profitability,” Media Executive, Mr Isiaq Ajibola, described the emergence of Pinnacle Daily as a welcome development in a rapidly evolving digital media space.

Ajibola, a veteran of nearly three decades in the Nigerian media industry, traced the history of print journalism from its origins in Europe to Nigeria’s pioneering titles such as the West African Pilot and Daily Times.

He said the internet and social media had transformed the global news industry, stressing that media organisations must innovate or risk extinction.

“Information now moves at the speed of light. Readers no longer wait for tomorrow’s paper. They want breaking news, analysis, video and conversation in real time,” he said.

In his remarks, former Governor of Ogun State and chairman of the occasion, Chief Olusegun Osoba, commended the promoters of Pinnacle Daily for establishing the publication despite the current economic challenges in the media industry.

Osoba, a veteran journalist, represented by Chief Eric Teniola, said that although the internet and artificial intelligence had redefined journalism, ethical standards remained the hallmark of credible practice.
“Journalism will continue to thrive as long as professionals stay true to ethics and the pursuit of truth.

“Citizen journalism has expanded access to information, but it also raises concerns about accuracy, standards, and ethics. The duty to uphold professionalism rests with us,” he said.

Osoba commended both legacy media and new digital platforms for their resilience and commitment to sustaining journalism as a tool for democracy and public enlightenment.

Also speaking, Chairman of Pinnacle Digital Resources Ltd., Mr Abimbola Adeseyoju, said the establishment of Pinnacle Daily was driven by a desire to create a value-driven media platform tailored to the needs of today’s information consumers.

Adeseyoju said that the outlet would focus on helping its audience make informed decisions across various sectors, including business, career, health, education, and entertainment.

“Our vision is for Pinnacle Daily to be the trusted choice for this generation, a platform that empowers Nigerians with credible information for personal and economic growth,” he said.

The chairman said that the evolution of technology and changing audience behaviour had reshaped the media landscape, stressing the need for media entrepreneurs to prioritise understanding their audiences over mere technological adoption.

“Technology is only a tool. What matters most is understanding the preferences of the modern news consumer,” Adeseyoju said.

He expressed optimism that Pinnacle Daily would become a sustainable and profitable media venture committed to professionalism, innovation, and service to the public.