The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s strong commitment to press freedom remains a cornerstone of his administration’s vision for a prosperous and democratic Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, November 12, at the All Nigeria Editors Conference, Idris emphasized that no media organization has been harassed, gagged, or shut down under the current government.
“At the heart of this vision for a prosperous Nigeria is an environment where free speech and a vibrant media can flourish. I stand before you today to affirm that under President Tinubu’s leadership, we have nurtured an unprecedentedly open and inclusive media ecosystem,” he said.
Highlighting Nigeria’s expansive media landscape, the minister noted that the country now has over 1,000 licensed radio and television stations, none of which have faced government sanctions for expressing dissenting views.
“This is not by chance but a deliberate commitment to upholding the constitutional principles of press freedom,” Idris added.
Idris further stated that President Tinubu’s respect for press freedom has attracted international recognition, earning Nigeria the right to host the International Media and Information Literacy Institute.
He explained that the institute would connect Nigeria with media professionals around the world and provide a platform to showcase the nation’s progress in information management.
“We are transforming our information architecture to ensure that Nigeria not only consumes information but also leads in shaping a more literate, discerning, and ethical global media environment,” he said.
Addressing editors at the event, Idris described them as “essential partners in national renewal,” urging them to engage with the government constructively and to report with fairness, accuracy, and responsibility.
“The Tinubu administration has shown its trust in you through its actions, not just its words. We encourage you to engage, critique constructively, and report responsibly. Together, let us tell the Nigerian story with balance, truth, and an unwavering belief in the promise of our great nation,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Idris reaffirmed that President Tinubu views a free and independent press not as an opponent, but as a vital pillar of democracy.
“A vibrant media is not the enemy of government—it is the foundation upon which a genuine and enduring democracy is built,” he stated.
