By Patrick Wemambu
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to champion Nigeria’s democratic progress – even as it promotes narratives that reflect the country’s progress and achievements.
The Minister made the remarks while speaking at the 70th Anniversary Gala/Award Night and Book Presentation of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) which was held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja weekend.
Addressing the gathering of journalists and dignitaries, Idris, who spoke on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour and also in his capacity as Chief Host, emphasized 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.
Reiterating the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, Idris noted 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 restated.
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.
Highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance ethical journalism in Nigeria, the minister unveiled a strategic partnership with UNESCO to set up a Category-2 Institute for Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in Abuja.
