The Minister of Information and National Orientation Mr Mohammed Idris Wednesday underscored the the pivotal role of Nigerisn media in defending the country’s democracy, saying it’s the “last man standing.”
The minister said this while speaking at the 21st Annual Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC) organised by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.
Emphasising the critical responsibility borne by journalists and media organisations in the country, the minister said despite the challenges, the Nigerian media space remains vibrant and essential in nation-building and safeguarding democratic values.
“The media is the last man standing in the defence of democracy. It is on your vigilance that the country’s democratic values rest. You hold an enormous responsibility not only to hold government to account but also to guard against actions that could be injurious to our society.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu fully supports the media and recognises its pivotal role in national development. He has told me severally that I should go and do my job as best as I deem fit, being a professional myself.
“We all must come together to walk this delicate path. Society must be kept together while also holding leaders accountable. The media’s independence is vital, but with it comes the responsibility to exercise discernment—to know what to report and what not to report,” he said.
The minister acknowledged the struggles and resilience of the Nigerian press throughout history and the unprecedented commitment from the government.
“For the first time in our nation’s history, we have a situation where the President is directly engaging with the media in a way that signifies respect for your work and your indispensable role in democracy.
“Only a week ago, UNESCO granted Nigeria the hosting right for the world’s first Media and Information Literacy Institute here in Abuja. This will connect Nigeria to global media literacy dynamics, reinforcing the importance of informed and responsible journalism.
“Let us work together to tell the Nigerian story with truth, values, and an unyielding belief in the promise of our great nation. Media and information literacy are foundational to any viable democracy. The media must continue to stand firm as the last man standing in the defense of our democratic journey,” he said.
