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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
At the 21st Annual Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC), the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, underscored the media’s pivotal role as the last true defender of democracy in Nigeria. Emphasising the critical responsibility borne by journalists and media houses, Idris highlighted that despite challenges, the Nigerian media landscape remains vibrant and essential in nation-building and safeguarding democratic values.
Minister Idris stated, “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.”
He expressed confidence in the media’s role, saying, “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.”
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Idris elaborated on the delicate balance required of the media: “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.”
The Minister acknowledged the struggles and resilience of the Nigerian press throughout history, noting the now 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,” he remarked.
He also spoke about the global recognition Nigeria recently received: “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.”
In concluding his address, Idris urged media professionals to remain patriotically committed, “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.”
