The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, has announced the Federal Government’s intent to collaborate with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to address the challenges of fake news, hate speech, and disinformation.
Speaking during the opening of the 2023 Press Week of the Oyo state Council of NUJ in Ibadan, the Minister emphasized the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu administration to uphold press freedom.
Alhaji Malagi, honored with the Media Development Award by Oyo state NUJ, highlighted the administration’s dedication to enhancing access to information. Represented by Mrs. Ebun Omolara Esan, the Director of Protocol, Federal Ministry of Information, he reassured that the government’s initiatives aim to bridge the information gap between urban and rural areas.
Acknowledging the challenges within the media landscape, such as misinformation, the Minister expressed the government’s determination to collaborate with NUJ to combat disinformation effectively.
He reiterated President Tinubu’s administration’s stance against stifling press freedom, recognizing the pivotal role of a free press in the development of democracy.
In pursuit of media development, the administration has focused on providing access to information, improving media infrastructure, and promoting media literacy nationwide.
The Minister stressed the importance of the media as a bridge between the government and the people, ensuring transparency, accountability, and the dissemination of accurate information.
Alhaji Malagi, appreciating the NUJ’s role in shaping the nation’s narrative, commended the union’s contribution to fostering dialogue and championing the cause of the fourth estate.
He concluded by expressing deep gratitude for being recognized with the NUJ Media Development Award, considering it not just a personal honor but a celebration of the media’s essential role in society.
The Minister urged the media to continue reporting on the nation’s development and the bold initiatives undertaken by President Tinubu to ensure the prosperity of citizens and the nation at large.