Tinubu Administration Committed To Press Freedom, Urges Responsible Journalism
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, says the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is firmly committed to upholding press freedom as a fundamental pillar of constitutional democracy.
“We recognise that a free, responsible and independent press is indispensable to good governance, transparency and public accountability. Our commitment is reflected in our continuous engagement with media stakeholders, our determination to foster an enabling environment in which journalists can carry out their professional duties without undue interference, and our resolve to deepen constructive dialogue between government and the media,” Idris said.
He made the remarks in a keynote address at the Inaugural Arewa Media Summit held at the Government House,Kano,on Monday.
“The Minister said this commitment had been demonstrated through unprecedented engagement between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian media, including regular interactions and the recently inaugurated State House Press Corps Annual Briefing and Luncheon, which he said,has opened a new chapter in strengthening mutual trust and understanding.
“We believe that democracy flourishes when citizens are well informed, diverse opinions are respected, and the media is able to perform its watchdog role with professionalism, responsibility and fidelity to the truth,” he said.
Idris also stated that responsible journalism requires balance reportage of issues, expressing the need for the media to report challenges honestly and also recognise genuine progress wherever it occurs.
“Nations are not defined solely by their difficulties, nor do they advance by ignoring them. They progress when truth is reported in its entirety.Undoubtedly, Northern Nigeria is far more than insecurity.
“It is a region of entrepreneurs building successful businesses, farmers feeding the nation, researchers making new discoveries, innovators developing digital solutions, artists promoting our culture and young people transforming their communities every day.
“These stories deserve prominence alongside the headlines about conflict because they present a fuller and more accurate picture of our region.
“Balanced journalism therefore requires us to examine national realities in their entirety,” he added.
In his address, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf said his administration is committed to promoting ethical journalism and strengthening the media sector, outlining some of the government’s achievements to include the creation of political positions and naming them as “Senior Special Reporters and Special Reporters.”
Yusuf said the appointees comprise over 150 young men and women whom have been working in various ministries, departments, and agencies of government, as well as in all the 44 local government areas of the state.
“Their primary responsibility is to promote the development programmes and achievements of both the federal and state governments, while enlightening citizens on government policies and activities,” he said.
The governor stated that the initiative had significantly enhanced public communication, strengthened citizens’ engagement, and brought many young people closer to the government.
“May I, at this juncture, therefore urge other states, sub-national, to emulate this initiative as a practical strategy for promoting developmental projects and improving public awareness and participation in governance,” the governor added.