During the Press Freedom and Good Governance Award ceremony in Abuja, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, emphasised the importance of enhancing opportunities for journalism to flourish, protecting press freedom, and preserving the planet for future generations. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) organised the event in Abuja. He emphasised that the Nigerian media is crucial in upholding and supporting democracy in the country. In honouring journalists for their important role in society, it is imperative to recognise the obstacles that journalists encounter while performing their crucial duties.
As they observe World Press Freedom Day, it is essential to emphasise their steadfast dedication to safeguarding the freedoms and safety of journalists. While carrying out their responsibilities, it is essential to remember that their primary duty is to shield Nigeria and their local community from the harmful effects of false information, disinformation, and misinformation. The speaker emphasised the crucial role of a free and impartial media in advancing democratic principles, enhancing openness, and upholding human rights.
Mohammed Idris, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, and others receive commendations.
Idris was thankful to the NUJ for honouring him with an Award of Good Governance and emphasised his dedication to further serving both humanity and the nation. Being acknowledged and valued by the community he has served in various roles is truly gratifying. From his time as a public relations practitioner, chairman of a public relations company, newspaper publisher, Chairman of Kings Broadcasting Limited (which runs WE FM in Abuja), and General Secretary of the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria, to his current position as the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, each role has been a unique experience.
The recognition he has received is a great honour that means a lot to him and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR). This gesture inspires him to renew his dedication to serving the country and all of humanity, he further stated. Also, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia, appreciated the recognition from NUJ as an awardee. He emphasised the importance of press freedom in democracy and the role journalists play in serving and protecting the public. The significance of events like this highlights the value of journalism in his work.
Defending democracy is essential to maintaining good governance.
After being watched by someone, receiving their approval and support at the end of the day is truly gratifying. He added that he is sincerely thankful to the NUJ for making this possible. Defending democracy is crucial, and transparency, good governance, and responsible leadership are key to achieving this goal. The organisation’s affiliation with his governance is a source of pride for him. He is truly grateful for the support and trust that has been given to him.
Mallam Jibril Baba Ndace, who is the Director General of Voice of Nigeria, spoke on behalf of the awardees and emphasised the importance of renewing their commitment to serving the country through writing engaging stories. They should all come together and dedicate themselves to defending the nation through their storytelling, urged Ndace. They believe in the uniqueness of the nation and are eager for media outlets to join them in combatting fake news and misinformation.
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By working together towards this goal, victory in the battle against falsehoods will be within reach, he stated. The event recognised distinguished individuals in five categories: Torch Bearers of Press Freedom Awards, Best Investigative Reporter of the Year Award, Defender of Press Freedom Awards, Life Time Achievement Award, and Good Governance Award. Recipients included Nigeria’s Minister of Information and Orientation, the Governor of Benue State, the Director General of Nigeria Television Authority NTA, the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), and various other deserving individuals.