Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for the Nigeria Press Council’s (NPC) national compendium, a publication highlighting the economic and tourism potentials of all states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Receiving a delegation from the NPC led by Executive Secretary Dr. Dili Ezughah at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the Vice President described President Bola Tinubu as a firm supporter of press freedom and a friend of the media.
“The President understands the media ecosystem. He has supported journalists personally through newsprint provision and other initiatives. He believes in press independence and has ensured that for the past three years, there has been no harassment of journalists,” VP Shettima stated.
He pledged the administration’s backing for the NPC’s initiative to obtain national endorsement for the publication, promising to engage the governors of the 36 states to participate in the project. “The subnationals own the land, own the people. Their support is crucial for driving this project forward,” he added.
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The Vice President highlighted the significance of the compendium, titled Nigeria: Documenting the Economic and Tourism Profiles of the 36 States and the FCT, noting that it would enhance Nigeria’s visibility on the global stage. “Similar publications exist in other countries and are often showcased at airport stands. This work should become a national treasure, widely printed and circulated to our embassies worldwide,” he said.
Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, lauded VP Shettima for his consistent leadership and support, explaining that the compendium would promote investment in Nigeria’s tourism and creative sectors by documenting cultural heritage, tourist destinations, and creative hubs in a structured and credible manner.
Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Mohammed Jatau, on behalf of Governor Bala Mohammed, expressed optimism that the publication would benefit all states by highlighting their economic and tourism potentials.
Dr. Ezughah, Executive Secretary of the NPC, thanked the Vice President for granting an audience to the Planning Committee and for his ongoing support in coordinating sub-national development efforts. He noted that the compendium would serve as a strategic tool for showcasing Nigeria’s resources and attracting investment.