Minister Affirms Tinubu’s Government’s Commitment to Media Freedom

• Minister Mohammed Idris assures that the Federal Government, led by President Tinubu, has no intention of controlling the media
• The minister emphasizes the importance of media responsibility and encourages collaboration between media operators and regulators for responsible reporting

Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, asserted on Thursday that the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, has no intention to stifle or control the media. While emphasizing the importance of media responsibility, the minister highlighted the need for collaboration between media operators and regulators.

In an interview on Channels TV, when asked about media houses operating without government pressure, Minister Idris stated, “Nobody has been pressured to do anything, but again it flows from the fact that you have to give people the truth. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a democrat, and he is a product of communication, why will he now say ‘don’t do it this way’. Nobody has been pressured, and there is no intention whatsoever to do that.”

He reassured that the administration is not interested in controlling the media but encourages responsible reporting. Minister Idris emphasized the importance of media freedom, urging responsible journalism to prevent societal problems.

Addressing global challenges of fake news and social media abuse, the minister acknowledged these issues but pointed out that the government is addressing them in its way. He mentioned UNESCO’s efforts to establish guidelines for social media, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with press freedom.

Minister Idris acknowledged the erosion of values among Nigerians over the years and expressed his commitment to rebuilding trust in government communication. He highlighted the need for a fresh orientation to revive nationalistic sentiments among the populace.

Regarding the delayed transition from analog to digital broadcasting (DSO), the minister deemed the progress unacceptable, vowing to revisit the issue and ensure its success within the next few years. He stressed the importance of making DSO work, considering the substantial investment made.

Minister Idris emphasized the necessity for truthfulness from government officials and the importance of citizens trusting their government for effective communication and governance.