Stakeholders in Nigeria’s media sector have called for stronger government action to ensure press freedom while urging journalists to uphold principled journalism. This call was made at the 2024 Annual Conference of the International Press Institute (IPI) in Abuja on Wednesday, themed “Democracy, Media Freedom and the Imperative of Protecting the Nigerian Civic Space.”
Malam Kabiru Yusuf, Chairman of the IPI Board of Trustees, stressed the importance of defending press freedom, likening it to health, a value that is often fully appreciated only when it is lost. He urged journalists to remain committed to the cause, despite challenges.
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Renowned media expert, Professor Tonnie Iredia, called for a re-evaluation of media practices. He urged journalists to embrace the media’s agenda-setting role and uphold ethical standards, moving beyond superficial reporting. He also emphasised the need for collective action to protect press freedom, promote accountability, and ensure the media remains a vital pillar of Nigeria’s democracy.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reminded media houses of their responsibility in reporting, emphasising that “for every right, there is a corresponding responsibility,” and that freedom must be exercised with care.
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