The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, delivered a powerful address at the 2024 Annual General Congress of the International Press Institute Nigeria in Abuja, underscoring the Federal Government’s unwavering dedication to media freedom and the protection of Nigeria’s civic space. He emphasized the vital role of a free press in upholding democratic principles while simultaneously urging journalists to wield their power responsibly, advocating for a balance between the watchdog function of the media and the essential need for accountability and professionalism. The conference, themed “Democracy, Media Freedom, and the Imperative of Protecting Nigeria’s Civic Space,” provided a platform for crucial dialogue among media practitioners, policymakers, and various stakeholders concerned with the interplay of media, democracy, and civic engagement.
Idris lauded the Nigerian press, characterizing it as one of the world’s most resolute and assertive institutions. He traced its historical significance, highlighting its instrumental role in securing Nigeria’s independence, dismantling military rule, and sustaining the current Fourth Republic. This enduring contribution, he argued, cemented the press’s position as an indispensable companion in Nigeria’s democratic journey. He acknowledged the press’s fearless pursuit of truth and its crucial contribution to shaping public discourse, positioning it as a cornerstone of a thriving democratic society.
However, the minister emphasized that the immense power wielded by the media necessitates a corresponding sense of responsibility. He cautioned against the misuse of this influence, stressing that while holding institutions accountable is a vital function of the press, there must be room for nuanced debate and a resistance to the temptation of demonizing opposing viewpoints. He called for a civil civic space where healthy discourse can flourish, allowing for the coexistence of accountability and respectful engagement. This balance, he asserted, is essential for forging a stronger democracy and paving the way for a prosperous Nigeria.
Idris pointed to President Bola Tinubu’s track record as evidence of the administration’s commitment to media freedom, citing specific instances of presidential intervention to uphold press rights since assuming office. He highlighted Tinubu’s background as a media entrepreneur and his long-standing advocacy for democratic principles, portraying him as a steadfast champion of a free press. The minister emphasized the administration’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding the civic space, fostering open dialogue, and ensuring that the press can operate without undue interference.
The minister framed media freedom as integral to the success of Nigeria’s broader reform agenda, encapsulated in the “Renewed Hope Agenda.” He emphasized the interconnectedness of a free press and a thriving democracy, arguing that a vibrant media landscape is essential for transparent governance and effective implementation of reforms. He urged journalists to actively support the government’s efforts to achieve inclusive growth, particularly the redirection of funds from unproductive subsidies towards critical sectors such as infrastructure development, education, and social investments. This reallocation, he argued, is essential for creating a more equitable and prosperous society.
In summary, Idris’s address at the IPI Nigeria Congress presented a nuanced perspective on the relationship between media freedom and responsible journalism. He acknowledged the vital role of the press in a democratic society while simultaneously emphasizing the need for accountability and professionalism. He linked the success of the government’s reform agenda to a free and responsible press, urging journalists to partner with the government in building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria. His call for a civil civic space, where robust debate can coexist with respectful engagement, underscores the importance of fostering a balanced media landscape that promotes both accountability and constructive dialogue.
