The Federal Government has urged the media to take the lead in promoting narratives that reflect Nigeria’s democratic progress and achievements, as a means of nurturing and consolidating democratic governance in the country.
The call was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, while speaking at the 70th Anniversary Gala/Award Night and Book Presentation of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Abuja on Saturday.
Addressing a gathering of journalists and dignitaries, Idris, who spoke on behalf of President Bola Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour and also in his capacity as Chief Host, emphasised the President’s longstanding bond with the Nigerian media.
“From being in the trenches alongside Nigeria’s most courageous journalists in the fight for the actualisation of June 12, and forging lifelong connections with them, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu possesses an affinity with the Nigerian press that is unparalleled in the history of the Nigerian presidency,” the Minister said.
He charged the media to use its platform to reinforce national unity, trust, and democratic consolidation.
“As we mark 26 years of continuous democratic governance in Nigeria, the media must champion narratives that reflect the country’s democratic gains – stories of institutional reforms, infrastructural development, citizen engagement, and socio-economic advancement,” he stated.
The Minister said by constructively spotlighting these milestones, the media not only honours the sacrifices that birthed the nation’s democracy but also helps to promote national cohesion and public trust in democratic institutions.
“In doing so, the media solidifies its role as a key pillar in sustaining and deepening Nigeria’s democratic journey,” he added.
He reiterated the Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, noting that a vibrant and responsible media remains essential to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
“As I have said this at many fora, and will say it again today, that the Tinubu administration will always be deeply committed to upholding press freedom as a pillar and cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy. And we will continue to promote and advance policies and programs that enable the media to thrive in the discharge of its responsibilities to our democracy and society,” he affirmed.
The Minister also acknowledged the challenges facing the journalism profession in the digital age, including the impact of generative AI, disinformation, and the evolving role of citizen journalism.
“The rise of generative AI in recent years has further complicated matters, bombarding us with a wave of deepfakes and sophisticated disinformation that makes credible journalism more challenging—and yet at the same time more urgent and essential than ever before,” he said.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance ethical journalism in Nigeria through a strategic partnership with UNESCO to set up a Category-2 Institute for Media and Information Literacy (MIL), in Abuja.
“This is why we are co-operating with UNESCO to establish, here in Abuja, a Category-2 Institute for Media and Information Literacy (MIL), the first of its kind in the world. When operational, this Institute will be a transformational resource that will serve and advance the cause of ethical journalism in Nigeria,” he disclosed.
The Minister pledged government’s readiness to work with NUJ towards tackling key issues affecting journalism such as media practitioners’ welfare, digital adaptation, gender balance and representation among others.
“We are keen to work with you and support you to tackle these issues as you strive to reposition yourselves for the ever-changing landscape of the 21st century,” he said.
Idris said even though one of the key responsibilities of the media is to hold government to account, the administration is desirous of partnering with the media to foster peace, security, and prosperity for the country.
“Even as you hold us to account as government—and we very much welcome this—there is also room to see us as close partners, and active co-creators along with you of the peace, security, and prosperity that our great nation deserves and is on the path to attaining, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
He congratulated the NUJ on its 70th anniversary and commended the Union for documenting its legacy through the book project launched at the event.
“I am of the strong view that the media profession must always remember to tell its own stories and shape its narratives; no one else will do it for us, he said.
The Minister paid glowing tribute to the chairman of the occasion, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and the Publisher of Vanguard newspaper, Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu, for their lifelong service to humanity through journalism, describing them as exemplars of the very best the profession has to offer.
