By Barth Ikiebe in Abuja.
Stakeholders have called for a free and independent media to strengthen democracy and promote accountability.
The appeal came as the World marked 2025 Press Freedom Day.
The theme for this year’s event is “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”
World Press Freedom Day is celebrated annually on May 3, to show the importance of free speech and journalism amid today’s global challenges.
In Nigeria, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to upholding press freedom in the face of growing challenges posed by AI.
Idris acknowledged the essential role of the media in a digital age and called for unity among government, journalists, and civil society to defend the principles of free expression.
He stated that the Tinubu administration considered press freedom a fundamental pillar of democracy.
“A free and responsible media is the lifeblood of any democratic society — it gives citizens the power to express themselves freely and hold leaders accountable. This framework will ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of ethics, press freedom, or national security,” he stated.
Celebrating journalists, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, said, “A free and independent press fosters democracy, accountability, and societal progress.”
The Governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said the government valued the partnership with the media in the collective pursuit of a better Edo State.
Okpebholo said he recognised the vital role the press played in amplifying the voices of the people, scrutinising government policies, and contributing to constructive dialogues.
“On this important World Press Freedom Day, the Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, joins the global community in recognising and celebrating the vital role of a free and independent press in fostering democracy, accountability, and societal progress.
“The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo firmly believes that a vibrant and unfettered media is a cornerstone of a healthy and informed society.
“Journalists, as the watchdogs of truth and the voice of the voiceless, play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable on critical issues, and empowering citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions,” the statement read.
Similarly, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has joined the global call for a free and responsible press, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding journalistic freedom and democratic values.
The NPF, in its statement, praised Nigerian journalists and media professionals for their resilience and dedication to truth, accountability, and public service—often in the face of adversity.
“Your work not only informs and educates the public but also strengthens the democratic ideals upon which our nation is built,” the statement read.
The police emphasized that press freedom is vital for transparency, good governance, and national development, and described the media as a “critical partner” in fostering a safer and more informed society.
“As an institution committed to the rule of law and the protection of all citizens’ rights and freedom, we reiterate our support for press freedom and our ongoing collaboration with the media,” it added.
The NPF extended deep appreciation to journalists for their relentless pursuit of truth and their vital role in nation building.
Also, the Safety and Protection of Journalists Hub of the International Press Centre, Lagos, called on stakeholders to defend the right to truthful information.
In a statement, the IPC Executive Director, Lanre Arogundade, noted, “Artificial Intelligence has brought unprecedented efficiencies to newsrooms, from automated fact-checking to data-driven investigative reporting.
“In Nigeria, media outlets leverage Artificial Intelligence to track corruption and amplify underreported stories, demonstrating its potential as a tool for accountability,” Arogundade noted.
