The Federal Government has urged the media to be mindful of sponsored political news and publications capable of inciting hatred, division, violence, and chaos in the country during the forthcoming general elections.
It also wants the media to ensure that the electoral umpire and other stakeholders play their roles in delivering free, fair, credible, and transparent elections to Nigerians.
Rejoicing with media practitioners on World Press Freedom Day, President Muhammadu Buhari called for unity in supporting media professionals, who work hard to de-escalate violent conflict and promote peaceful societies without compromising the responsibility to report.
He urged government information managers to ensure that the press and the general public had access to facts and figures of government activities without hussle.
The President reiterated the government’s commitment to freedom of the press, pledging to continue ensuring the protection of the rights and privileges of journalists in the lawful performance of their professional duties.
He charged the Nigerian Press to use World Press Freedom Day to reflect on the need to embrace the best professional standards and practices, especially in the build-up to the forthcoming general elections.
He noted that the free performance of media roles and responsibilities during the electoral process was as important as the sanctity and will of Nigerians, expressed through the ballot box.
In line with the theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Day, ”Journalism under digital siege,” President Buhari assured that government agencies under his watch would always stand against actions that were capable of limiting the preservation of the freedom of the Press guaranteed by the country’s constitution.
He said the government was working hard to support media organisations in Nigeria through provision of better internet access to underserved communities, and achieve 95 percent digital literacy by 2030.
President Buhari thanked members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, whose diligent work has helped in guaranteeing peace, stability, and progress in the country.
World Press Freedom Day is observed on May 3rd annually.
BELLO WAKILI