The Federal Government has said the administration of President Bola Tinubu has maintained a high level of tolerance for criticism, insisting that Nigerians are free to attack or criticise the President without fear of reprisals.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, stated this on Thursday while representing Tinubu at the centenary celebration of the Daily Times of Nigeria Limited in Abuja.

Akume, who delivered the President’s remarks, quoted Tinubu as saying that the administration’s approach to criticism was central to its Renewed Hope Agenda and commitment to press freedom.

“Let us admit that under this government, you can insult and attack the President and still go to bed without midnight troubles. This philosophy lies at the heart of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Tinubu was quoted as saying.

The President said his administration recognised the media as a critical institution in shaping the direction and destiny of Nigeria, stressing that the country’s current difficulties were the product of structural weaknesses that had accumulated over several decades.

According to him, addressing the challenges requires an honest understanding of Nigeria’s past, as well as the courage to make difficult decisions capable of repositioning the country.

Tinubu said the reforms introduced by his administration were not merely policy adjustments but part of a broader effort to alter the country’s economic trajectory.

He listed the objectives of the reforms to include establishing a stronger fiscal foundation, building a more productive economy, strengthening institutions, attracting investment, improving infrastructure and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.

The President maintained that the measures were designed to position Nigeria to compete more effectively in the global economy.

Turning to the centenary of Daily Times, Tinubu described the newspaper’s 100-year existence as evidence of institutional resilience and enduring relevance in Nigeria’s history.

“One hundred years is not an anniversary; it is a testament to endurance, relevance and institutional resilience,” he said.

He noted that Daily Times had played more than a reporting role in the country’s development, describing the newspaper as a leader, analyst and catalyst in Nigeria’s national story.

Tinubu further stressed the importance of preserving historical memory, warning that societies that forget their past risk repeating their mistakes.

“A nation that forgets its history is at risk of repeating its mistakes, but a nation that understands its history can draw wisdom from its successes, learn from its setbacks and confidently design its future,” he said.