The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Malagi, alongside his counterpart in the Ministry of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, has teamed up with state governors to underscore the significance of press freedom in Nigeria.
During a media address commemorating the 2024 World Press Freedom Day at the radio house in Abuja, Malagi emphasized the critical role of media freedom in the nation’s development. This year’s theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,” highlights the pressing environmental challenges facing the world.
Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, praised the sacrifices and contributions of media practitioners in enhancing democratic processes. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo acknowledged the indispensable role of the press in holding the government accountable and informing the public about government programs and policies.
Governor Ododo reiterated the importance of a free and independent press in democracy, stressing the need for citizens to protect and promote press freedom. He acknowledged the risks journalists face in disseminating information and affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring their safety and freedom to operate without fear.
In a similar vein, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, urged journalists to uphold their role as watchdogs of society and guardians of public interest. He commended media practitioners for promoting democratic ideals and emphasized responsible journalism amidst evolving challenges in the digital era.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya reaffirmed his commitment to working with the media to entrench transparency, accountability, and openness in governance in Gombe state. He stressed the importance of combating fake news and misinformation while ensuring accurate and balanced reporting of events and activities.
The World Press Freedom Day serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing information as a public good and advancing transparency and empowerment.
