Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's unwavering commitment to press freedom and his profound respect for the media's role in shaping the nation's democratic landscape.
Speaking at the annual Blueprint Newspaper Lecture, Impact Series, and Awards held in Abuja on Tuesday, Idris emphasized that President Tinubu considers the media an essential partner in governance and democratic development.
According to the statement signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister, President Tinubu granted Idris professional autonomy from the beginning of his appointment.
"He knows that the media is very crucial in nation-building and he has told me severally that I should go and do my job as best as I deem fit, being a professional myself," Idris stated.
The Minister emphasized that the President has no intention of restricting media operations in Nigeria, recognizing the vital role the press plays in maintaining national unity and ensuring accountability among those in power.
"President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not in any way, form, or shape, stifle or stand in the way of the progress or the work of the media in this country. But all of us media professionals have to come together to walk this delicate path and ensure that society is being kept together while also holding leaders and government to account," the Minister emphasized.
Idris also cautioned that journalism must be practiced with balance and responsibility, particularly in a society facing division and misinformation challenges.
"In doing that job, you have an enormous responsibility to hold government and leaders to account, but even as you do that, you also have to know that because of your vantage position and the critical role you play, you can also help, if you don't take care, your actions may be injurious to society," he warned.
He stressed the importance for media practitioners to distinguish between constructive scrutiny and content that might deepen societal divisions or destabilize peace.
Despite the numerous challenges facing the media landscape, Idris expressed optimism about the resilience and continued evolution of Nigerian journalism.
The Minister also clarified his former association with Blueprint Newspapers, revealing that he had relinquished his role as Chairman following his ministerial appointment.
"I am no longer the chairman of Blueprint Newspaper. I'm also an invitee to this occasion. I know that I was in the past, at the forefront of organizing this event for Blueprint, especially since its inception 14 years ago," he explained.
Stay informed with the latest political developments by following BenriNews on our social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and Telegram.
