Shettima Urges Media to Deepen Democracy Through Constructive Journalism at Kolade-Otitoju’s Book Launch

By Aminu Muhammad, Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on the Nigerian media to serve as partners in national development by embracing constructive journalism and critical thinking to strengthen the country’s democracy.

Speaking in Abuja during the public presentation of the book, “My Life and Journalists Hangout,” and the 60th birthday celebration of TVC News Director of News, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, the Vice President stressed the importance of a vibrant and responsible media in sustaining democratic values.

He noted that societies are not weakened by a lack of ideas but by the absence of individuals courageous enough to question, scrutinise, and test those ideas against reason. According to him, the media plays a central role in shaping public discourse and must rise to the responsibility of guiding national conversations with integrity and insight.

“The measure of every democracy is not only in elections or institutions but in the sensibility of its media,” Shettima said, adding that a functional democracy depends on a media culture that knows when to probe, warn, enlighten, and exercise restraint.

He warned that unchecked falsehoods and unchallenged narratives could erode public trust, stressing that the media must act as a “republic of conscience” rather than a platform for confusion.

The Vice President paid glowing tribute to Kolade-Otitoju, describing him as a veteran journalist who has consistently demonstrated intellectual courage and a commitment to critical engagement through his programme, “Journalists Hangout.”

He praised the celebrant’s enduring integrity and relevance in the profession.

In his review, Prof. Kyari Mohammed described the nine-chapter book as a comprehensive reflection of Kolade-Otitoju’s career across print and broadcast journalism.

He recommended it as a valuable resource for policymakers, journalists, and administrators, noting its insights into governance, media practice, and public discourse.