The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s media and cultural sectors by supporting institutions and organisations that promote responsible journalism, ethical communication and national development.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance in Abuja during the unveiling of the roadmap for the 50th anniversary (Golden Jubilee) celebration of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU).
The minister described RATTAWU as a strategic partner in nation-building, praising its decades-long contribution to Nigeria’s media, creative industry and democratic development.
Idris said the union’s Golden Jubilee represents a significant milestone, honouring the contributions of professionals in broadcasting, theatre, arts and culture to national unity, democratic governance and public enlightenment.
He noted that media practitioners and creative professionals have continued to play a vital role in promoting accountability, educating citizens and fostering peaceful coexistence across the country.
While reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting freedom of expression and press freedom, the minister stressed that those rights must be exercised responsibly.
According to him, responsible communication remains essential to preserving national unity and combating the growing threat of misinformation and fake news
Responsible communication is critical to preserving national unity, strengthening democracy, promoting peaceful coexistence, and combating the growing challenge of misinformation and fake news,” Idris said.
He warned media practitioners and social media users against spreading false information and divisive narratives capable of undermining national stability.
Freedom of speech must always go hand in hand with responsibility. We must continue to reject misinformation, fake news, divisive narratives, and irresponsible use of media platforms, while protecting the constitutional rights of Nigerians to lawful expression and constructive criticism,” he added.
The minister also highlighted the growing importance of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) in addressing the challenges posed by fake news, digital manipulation and information disorder.
According to him, media literacy has become increasingly important as technology continues to reshape how information is created, shared and consumed.
At a time when the world is confronted with fake news, disinformation, digital manipulation and information disorder, institutions such as IMILI have become increasingly vital,” he stated.
Idris reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to creating an enabling environment for journalists, broadcasters, artists and other media professionals to thrive.
He also commended RATTAWU President Prince Emeka Kalu and the union’s leadership for preserving the organisation’s legacy over the past five decades.
The event attracted senior government officials, labour leaders, media executives and stakeholders from Nigeria’s media and creative industries, who gathered to launch activities marking RATTAWU’s Golden Jubilee celebration.
