By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has called for enhanced collaboration among the media, government institutions, and key stakeholders to tackle the rising threat of disinformation and misinformation, stressing that coordinated efforts are critical to safeguarding public trust and national stability.
According to an official signed statement by Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Rabiu Ibrahim, the Honourable Minister, Mohammed Idris, made the call on Monday in Abuja during the 2026 World Press Freedom Day commemoration held at Radio House.
Idris stated that the current administration has prioritised strategic engagement with media stakeholders and international partners to promote responsible journalism and counter the spread of false information. He described press freedom as a fundamental right guaranteed under the Constitution and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting it.
“The Federal Government fully recognises press freedom as a fundamental right and remains committed to fostering an environment where the media can operate freely, safely, and responsibly, in accordance with democratic principles and the rule of law,” the Minister said.
He condemned all forms of intimidation, unlawful harassment, and attacks against journalists, warning that such actions undermine democratic institutions and weaken the media’s role in society. He emphasised that a secure and enabling environment for journalists is essential for sustaining democracy.
The Minister further highlighted ongoing efforts by the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen transparency and improve access to information through sustained media engagement, effective implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, and investments in public communication platforms.
Idris also pointed to Nigeria’s collaboration with UNESCO in establishing the International Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja as a strategic initiative aimed at promoting media literacy and empowering citizens to critically evaluate information in the digital age. He noted that the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a more informed and responsible information ecosystem.
He urged journalists to uphold professionalism, fairness, and ethical standards, stressing that press freedom must be exercised with a high sense of responsibility. According to him, the true measure of press freedom lies in the safety of journalists, the accuracy of information disseminated, and the responsibility with which such information is consumed.
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr Binyerem Ukaire, described the event as a vital platform for strengthening institutional collaboration and advancing a free and responsible media environment.
She noted that the gathering provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue on enhancing press freedom while addressing emerging challenges within the evolving information landscape.
Ukaire emphasised the need for coordinated institutional responses to the complexities introduced by the expansion of digital platforms, particularly in tackling misinformation and rebuilding public trust. She reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to promoting professionalism, strengthening partnerships, and facilitating sustained engagement across the media sector.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its resolve to continue working closely with the media, civil society organisations, and international partners to build a resilient information ecosystem that supports democratic governance, national unity, and sustainable development.
The event was attended by the Inspector-General of Police, represented by the Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Okon Placid, mni, mnipr; the Director-General of the Department of State Services, represented by Director of Protocol M. O. Chukwuka, fsi; the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, Dr Dilli Ezughah; and the Head of UNESCO Abuja Office, represented by the Head of Communication and Information Sector, Ms Yachat Nuhu.
