The Federal Government said it has always prioritised collaboration with media stakeholders and international partners to promote responsible journalism, counter disinformation and misinformation.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, in a message to mark the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, described press freedom as a fundamental right guaranteed under the Constitution.

The minister noted that the Federal Government remains fully committed to its protection. He said: “The Federal Government fully recognises press freedom as a fundamental right and remains committed to fostering an environment where the media can operate freely, safely, and responsibly, in accordance with democratic principles and the rule of law.”

The minister noted that the Federal Government has taken deliberate steps to strengthen transparency and access to information through sustained media engagement, implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, and investment in public communication platforms.

Idris further pointed to Nigeria’s partnership with UNESCO in establishing the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) in Abuja as a key step towards building a more informed and discerning public.

“This pioneering initiative reflects our commitment to strengthening media and information literacy, empowering citizens to engage with information critically, and promoting responsible communication in the digital age,” he said.

The minister urged journalists to uphold professionalism, fairness, and ethical standards in their work, stressing that press freedom must go hand in hand with responsibility.