Press freedom Nigeria Tinubu government vows to uphold media rights, tackle fake news, and support responsible journalism to strengthen democracy and unity

[dropcap]P[/dropcap]ress freedom Nigeria Tinubu government officials reaffirmed on Tuesday their dedication to safeguarding an open and responsible press, recognising the media’s indispensable role in promoting democracy, national development, and unity.

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Speaking at the public presentation of Nigeria Media Renaissance Perspectives on Online Publishing in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, applauded the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) for championing ethical digital journalism and fostering innovation in the online media space.

Idris stated that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains committed to press freedom in line with the journalism values of truth, fairness, and accountability.

He emphasised that the government intends to partner with the media to improve professional standards, enhance public communication, and amplify narratives that inspire national progress and unity.

“The Federal Government is committed to a free, responsible, and vibrant press that aligns with the enduring core values of journalism truth, fairness, and accountability,” the minister said.

“We want to work with the media to raise standards, promote media literacy, strengthen public communication, and tell the Nigerian story in a way that inspires hope and galvanises action.”

Reflecting on 26 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria, Idris called on both the media and the government to deepen their commitment to public service and democratic ideals.

He described democracy not as an end, but a means to uplift citizens through improved services, infrastructure, and economic empowerment.

He also outlined the administration’s deliberate efforts to make democracy more meaningful by implementing economic reforms, expanding social services, and focusing on infrastructure that supports long-term development.

These policies, he said, are designed to shift Nigeria from a consumption-based economy to one that prioritises production and sustainability.

The minister drew attention to the growing influence of digital and online media in shaping opinion, fostering accountability, and maintaining social cohesion.

He, however, issued a strong warning against the dangers of fake news and misinformation, which he described as threats to national stability and good governance.

“We have seen how a false report can ignite violence, disrupt markets, or destroy reputations in a matter of minutes,” he noted.

While praising GOCOP members for their responsible conduct, he encouraged them to play a more proactive role in calling out misinformation and promoting professional integrity across platforms.

In response to these challenges, Idris revealed that a UNESCO Category 2 Media and Information Literacy Institute is set to open in Abuja by November 2025.

The institute aims to boost Nigeria’s leadership in ethical journalism and improve nationwide fact-checking capacity.

He also commended GOCOP for its latest publication, calling it a “thoughtful attempt to redefine journalistic ethics and standards in the digital era.”

According to him, a genuine media renaissance must embrace both innovation and a return to core values such as truth, responsibility, and public relevance.

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The Federal Government’s position signals a renewed push to support a media environment that is both independent and accountable, fostering a democracy that works for all Nigerians.