By Stanley Onyekwere
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris has declared that the Federal Government led by President Bola Tinubu is dedicated to creating an environment where journalists can work freely, without intimidation, as their rights will be acknowledged and protected.
Idris, who chaired the occasion, also reaffirmed the commitment of the Tinubu’s administration to a free and responsible journalism, noted that a society can only flourish when its media organs are free to report the truth without fear of retribution and to equally hold those in authority accountable.
He spoke yesterday in Abuja, during the public presentation of a book: ‘Writing for Media and Monetising it’, authored by the Senior Vice Chairman/ Editor-in-Chief, Leadership Newspaper Group Ltd, Azu Ishiekwene.
According to him, the role of the media in shaping public opinion and promoting national unity cannot be over emphasized.
His words: “It is important to reaffirm the commitment of the Tinubu administration to a free and responsible journalism. We understand that a society can only flourish when its media organs are free to report the truth without fear of retribution and to equally hold those in authority accountable.
“The President Tinubu administration is therefore, dedicated to creating an environment where journalists can work freely, without intimidation, and with the assurance that their rights will be acknowledged and protected.
“However, freedom comes with responsibility. As we champion the cause of a free press, it is incumbent on the media to exercise this freedom with a sense of duty, ethics and patriotism.
“ It is crucial that the information disseminated to the public is accurate, balanced, and devoid of sensationalism. We must all strive to ensure that this role is played with the utmost responsibility while we work closely to advance the course of good governance in our country.
“Nevertheless, while Azu, the impeccable gentleman that he is, has helped us with a compass to materialise our creativity, it is also instructive that as media practitioners, we put ethics in the front row of our practice.
“We must be wary of fake news, misinformation and disinformation, indeed, new cankerworms that destroy individual and corporate reputation, and above all, destabilise the society.”
Earlier, the book reviewer, Dr. Reuben Abati, said the literature will help improve reading culture among journalists, thereby empowering them with the appropriate tool maximise their full potentials in the society.
On his part, Mr. Azu, expressed hope that the new book should be able to help inspire content creators and writers especially journalists to thrive in the industry.
He added that the book will also bridge the gap between what young journalists are taught in schools and work experiences in the society.
Highpoint of the event was the unveiling of the book by Idris, with the support of a selected guests of honour and the author.
Some of the dignitaries that graced the event include top media executives, serving and past public servants such as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo; the immediate past Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare; former Governor of Imo State, Ikedim Ohakim; Chairman of leadership Newspaper, Zainab Nda-Isaiah; Publisher of Vanguard Newspaper, Sam Amuka, the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief.
Others were former President Muhammadu Buhari’s media aides, Garba Shehu and Femi Adesina; and lone FCT Senator, Ireti Kingibe, Ms. Kadaria Ahmed, Founder/CEO RadioNow 95.3FM amongst others.
