The Federal Government has intensified calls for stronger collaboration between the media, public institutions, and key stakeholders to tackle the rising threat of misinformation and disinformation in Nigeria.
Speaking at the 2026 commemoration of World Press Freedom Day in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stressed that joint efforts are critical to safeguarding public trust and national stability.
According to the minister, the current administration has placed a premium on partnerships with media organisations and international bodies to promote responsible journalism and counter the spread of false information. He reaffirmed that press freedom remains a constitutional right and pledged the government’s continued support in ensuring a safe and enabling environment for journalists.
“The Federal Government recognises press freedom as fundamental and remains committed to creating conditions where the media can operate freely, safely, and responsibly,” Idris said.
He also condemned intimidation, harassment, and attacks on journalists, warning that such actions undermine democratic institutions.
Highlighting ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Idris noted improvements in transparency and access to information through sustained media engagement, effective implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, and investments in communication platforms.
He further pointed to Nigeria’s collaboration with UNESCO in establishing the International Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja as a landmark initiative aimed at promoting critical thinking and responsible information consumption in the digital age.
The minister urged journalists to uphold professionalism and ethical standards, emphasising that press freedom must be exercised with responsibility. “The true test of press freedom lies not just in declarations, but in how safely journalists operate and how truthfully information is shared,” he added.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Binyerem Ukaire, described the event as a vital platform for fostering institutional collaboration and strengthening Nigeria’s information ecosystem. She noted that the rapid expansion of digital platforms has created new challenges that require coordinated responses, particularly in addressing misinformation and building public trust.
Ukaire reiterated the ministry’s commitment to promoting dialogue, strengthening partnerships, and enhancing professionalism within the media sector.
The Federal Government concluded by reaffirming its resolve to work with the media, civil society, and global partners to build a resilient information system that supports democratic governance, national unity, and sustainable development.
The event drew participation from representatives of security agencies, the Nigerian Press Council, and UNESCO, among other stakeholders.
