The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding a free, responsible, and vibrant press, recognizing the media’s vital role in sustaining democracy and driving national development. Speaking in Abuja during the public unveiling of Nigeria Media Renaissance – Perspectives on Online Publishing, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, praised the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) for promoting ethical standards and innovation in digital journalism.
Minister Idris emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains dedicated to press freedom, aligning with journalism’s core values of truth, fairness, and accountability. He expressed the government’s willingness to collaborate with the media in raising journalistic standards, enhancing public communication, promoting media literacy, and telling stories that unite the nation and inspire progress.
“We want to work with the media to raise standards, promote media literacy, strengthen public communication, and tell the Nigerian story in a way that inspires hope and galvanises action”.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, Idris urged both the government and the media to recommit to democratic principles and public service. He stressed that democracy should be a tool for improving citizens’ lives through economic reforms, infrastructure development, and expanded social services, rather than being seen merely as the right to vote.
He also highlighted the growing influence of digital media in shaping public opinion and fostering accountability, while warning against the dangers of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation.He called on responsible media platforms, particularly those within GOCOP, to play a proactive role in countering harmful content and protecting democratic institutions.
To further support responsible journalism, the minister announced the establishment of a UNESCO Category 2 Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja by November 2025. This institute will enhance fact-checking capabilities and media professionalism. He commended GOCOP’s latest publication as a timely effort to reassert ethical values and quality journalism in the digital age.
