Defend democracy, FG urges media

The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, has called on the media to remain vigilant in safeguarding the country’s democratic values.

In a statement signed and released by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, on Wednesday, Idris emphasised the media’s critical role in defending Nigeria’s 24 years of uninterrupted democracy.

Idris made the appeal during a visit from the executive council of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, who informed him about preparations for the upcoming 20th All Nigeria Editors Conference, set to take place in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, from November 6-9, 2024.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s transition from military rule, Idris stated, “Nigeria’s democratic journey was hard-fought by all, with the media playing a leading role in the struggle against military dictatorship. Therefore, 24 years on, the media should not be seen as letting down its guard at this critical juncture.

“What it must do is to sustain and reinforce its time-honoured support for democracy.”

Idris assured the NGE executives, led by President Eze Anaba, that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains fully committed to democratic values, particularly press freedom.

He noted that the media is viewed as a guardian of democracy, national unity, and security, urging them to prioritise these ideals in their reporting.

Highlighting the Tinubu administration’s reform agenda, Idris encouraged the media to project positivity about the country’s path to socio-economic progress, acknowledging the challenges but affirming Nigeria’s forward momentum.

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He also announced government initiatives to support the media, including single-digit loans through the Bank of Industry and efforts to address the high cost of newsprint.

NGE President Anaba shared that the 20th ANEC would focus on the theme, ‘Economic Growth and Development Strategies in a Resource-Rich Country’, addressing Nigeria’s current economic realities and the need for actionable solutions.