December 02, (THEWILL) — Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding press freedom, stressing that an independent and critical media is central to the survival of the country’s democracy.
Idris made the declaration at the 2025 International Press Institute (IPI) Annual Congress and General Meeting held on Tuesday in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme, “Addressing Media Repression in Nigeria: Safeguarding Press Freedom and Democratic Accountability,” Idris said the administration of President Bola Tinubu views the media as a vital partner in nation-building.
While the congress theme may suggest a focus on repression, the minister said it provides an opportunity for frank discussions on strengthening democratic institutions.
He emphasised the President’s belief that a free press allows a nation to “hold a conversation with itself,” adding that journalists must be empowered to perform their constitutional roles without fear.
Idris noted that the government has implemented stricter protocols for security agencies to protect media personnel in conflict zones and during civil protests, while regulatory agencies continue to create a more enabling environment for media organisations to thrive.
Acknowledging the challenges of balancing national security, countering misinformation, and upholding free expression, Idris described the struggle as a global issue.
He stressed that the current administration’s approach is rooted in transparency rather than coercion, ensuring social harmony without suppressing media voices. “Our approach is not to retreat into control but to engage through dialogue and build proactive solutions,” he said.
The Minister pledged to remain a strong advocate for media freedom within government, maintaining that his role includes ensuring the Federal Executive Council consistently upholds democratic values.
“I will continue to be an unwavering voice championing a free press and an open society,” he added.
IPI Nigeria President Musikilu Mojeed expressed concern over persistent attacks on journalists and abuses of state power.
He highlighted Nigeria’s drop from 112 to 122 in the latest global Press Freedom Index, attributing it to harassment, arbitrary arrests, and misuse of the Cybercrime Act despite its recent amendments.
Mojeed warned that a culture of impunity continues to embolden political actors, security agencies, and state authorities, urging the Federal Government to review oppressive laws and hold violators accountable.
He also called for stronger unity within the media community, saying, “When a journalist is arrested in Kano, colleagues in Akwa Ibom must care. Solidarity is our greatest line of defence.”
Executive Director of the IPI Global Network, Scott Griffen, noted that the global media landscape is undergoing historic transformation and urged journalists and institutions to adapt to strengthen the profession.
He commended IPI Nigeria for its leadership and reiterated the organisation’s nearly 75-year mission of supporting and defending journalism worldwide.
The congress, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, also featured the unveiling of the IPI publication, Nigeria Book of Infamy, which documents pressing threats to press freedom across the country.
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