FG Committed to Press Freedom, Says Idris

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reiterated the commitment of the federal government to press freedom.

He stated this when he received the executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at his office in Abuja.

The minister, who recognised the challenges journalists and media organisations face, including press freedom, access to information, and journalist safety, stressed the importance of a free and vibrant media landscape to the success of democracy.

In a statement signed by the Director of Press, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Suleiman Haruna, the minister said he acknowledged the vital role played by NUJ in sustaining democracy, urging practitioners and regulators to work together as partners in progress.

“The Ministry of Information and National Orientation is here to provide oversight and create a level playing field for all journalists, our goal is to ensure that journalists feel safe and encouraged to practice their profession,” Idris said.

He observed that while press freedom is valued, it is also crucial for practitioners to be responsible and provide accurate information to the Nigerian public.

The minister reiterated that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown commitment to press freedom by creating a conducive environment for the Nigerian press to operate.

He charged practitioners to take advantage of the commitment and collaborate in repositioning and reorienting Nigerians for the benefit of the country’s development, peace, and unity.

According to him, “As the Minister of Information and National Orientation, I am committed to working collaboratively with the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) to address the challenges bedeviling the industry and to promote a vibrant and responsible media landscape.”

He re-echoed his strong dedication to nurturing a flourishing media environment with the backing of the union and other stakeholders.

In his remarks, the NUJ President, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, acknowledged the challenges faced by the media industry, including press freedom, access to information, journalist safety, and economic burdens.

He said the NUJ perceives the minister as a major stakeholder and an ally in addressing these challenges and fostering a vibrant, independent, and responsible media landscape in the country. Isiguzo noted that NUJ envisions a collaborative alliance with the ministry, built on shared commitment and optimism for the future.