As the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) celebrated its 70th anniversary, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has urged the Nigerian media to lead efforts in promoting narratives that reflect the nation’s democratic progress and development strides.
Speaking at the NUJ @70 Gala and Award Night, which also featured a commemorative book presentation at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, the Minister emphasized the critical role of the press in consolidating democratic governance and fostering national unity.
The Minister Idris, represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Special Guest of Honour and also served as the event’s Chief Host, highlighted the President’s long-standing relationship with the media, rooted in his participation in the struggle for the actualisation of June 12.
The Minister urged the media to actively promote stories of institutional reforms, infrastructural development, increased citizen engagement, and socio-economic progress—hallmarks of Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule.
He noted that the media remains a cornerstone of democratic sustainability and national cohesion, especially in times of political and social transformation.
While reiterating the Tinubu administration’s firm commitment to press freedom, Idris acknowledged the evolving challenges confronting journalism in the digital era.
He cited the influence of citizen journalism, the spread of disinformation, and the disruptive impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI).
The NUJ @70 celebration brought together a broad spectrum of dignitaries, veteran journalists, media executives, public officials, and stakeholders from across the country to honour the union’s seven decades of impact in the Nigerian media space.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to distinguished Nigerians in recognition of their significant contributions to the growth and development of the media industry among which is the Kanwan Katsina district head of Ketare Usman Bello Kankara.
