Speaking on Tuesday at the public presentation of the book Nigeria Media Renaissance – Perspectives on Online Publishing in Abuja, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described a free, responsible, and vibrant press as vital to strengthening democracy and promoting national development.
Idris commended the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) for upholding ethical standards and embracing innovation in the digital media space. He assured that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains dedicated to supporting journalistic values anchored on truth, fairness, and accountability.
“The Federal Government is committed to a free, responsible, and vibrant press that aligns with the enduring core values of journalism — truth, fairness, and accountability,” he said. “We want to work with the media to raise standards, promote media literacy, strengthen public communication, and tell the Nigerian story in a way that inspires hope and galvanises action.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, the minister called for national reflection, encouraging both government and the media to renew their commitment to democratic values and public service.
He noted that democracy goes beyond elections, stressing its role in improving living standards, ensuring basic freedoms, and driving economic and human development. Idris highlighted the Tinubu administration’s ongoingefforts to actualise these goals through economic reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and the expansion of social services — all aimed at transitioning Nigeria from a consumption-based economy to one rooted in production and sustainability.
On the impact of digital and online media, the minister emphasised their crucial role in shaping public opinion and fostering accountability. However, he cautioned against the dangers of misinformation, describing fake news as a growing threat to public order and democratic governance.
“The media — especially the digital and online media represented here today — has a critical role to play in nurturing our democracy. You are the gatekeepers of information. A false report can ignite violence, disrupt markets, or destroy reputations in minutes,” he warned.
While praising GOCOP members for generally upholding media integrity, Idris urged them to actively expose individuals and platforms spreading falsehoods.
To strengthen Nigeria’s media environment, the minister announced that the UNESCO Category 2 Media and Information Literacy Institute will be launched in Abuja by November 2025. The institute is expected to enhance media professionalism and boost fact-checking capabilities across the country.
He also commended GOCOP for producing Nigeria Media Renaissance, describing the book as a timely contribution toward redefining journalistic ethics and standards in the digital era.
“A true media renaissance is not just about innovation,” he said. “It is about returning to the core values of quality, responsibility, and relevance in journalism.”
