THE Federal Government has restated its commitment to protecting press freedom and ensuring a safe environment for journalists as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the pledge on Monday in Abuja at an inter-ministerial press conference held to mark World Press Freedom Day 2026.

The event, themed “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” brought together key stakeholders, including security agencies and media executives, to deliberate on safeguarding journalists and strengthening collaboration ahead of the next election cycle.

Idris said the government recognises a free and responsible press as central to democratic governance, stressing that no society can thrive without credible information and accountability.

He noted that Nigeria’s democratic journey has been shaped in part by the role of the media in informing citizens, shaping public discourse and holding leaders accountable.

According to him, the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to fostering an environment where journalists can operate freely and safely.

“Let me reaffirm unequivocally that the government does not support any form of intimidation, unlawful harassment or attacks against journalists carrying out their lawful duties,” he said.

The minister, however, drew attention to emerging challenges in the information space, particularly the rapid spread of misinformation, disinformation and manipulated content driven by digital platforms and artificial intelligence.

He said while technology has expanded access to information, it has also introduced risks capable of undermining public trust and national stability.

“We have seen how the influence of deepfakes and fake news threatens the very democracy that press freedom seeks to protect,” he said.

Idris disclosed that Nigeria is working with the UNESCO to address these concerns, including the establishment of a media and information centre in Abuja aimed at tackling misinformation and promoting media literacy.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the minister said the role of the media would be critical in ensuring credible, peaceful and transparent polls.

He urged journalists to prioritise accuracy, fairness and professionalism, warning that harmful narratives could weaken democratic processes.

“A professional, ethical and responsible media will be central to ensuring free, fair and credible elections,” he said.

He also highlighted ongoing government efforts to improve access to information, including the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act and investments in public communication platforms such as the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Nigerian Television Authority and the News Agency of Nigeria.

The minister added that the National Press Centre in Abuja is undergoing reforms to restore it as a hub for media engagement and professional activities.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Oluwatosin Ajayi, said press freedom must be balanced with national security considerations.

He noted that while transparency is vital, certain security operations require confidentiality to protect lives and national interests.

“A nation at peace requires both security and liberty. Security without freedom risks dictatorship, while freedom without security risks disorder,” he said.

Ajayi emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between security agencies and the media, including regular briefings and improved communication channels to build trust and reduce friction.

On his part, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to protecting journalists.

He described the media as an essential partner in maintaining law and order, adding that attacks on journalists would not be tolerated.

“Any infringement on the rights of journalists is an affront to the rule of law, and we remain committed to investigating and prosecuting such violations,” he said.

The World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993 following a recommendation by UNESCO, and is marked annually on May 3 to celebrate press freedom, assess its state worldwide and honour journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The date also commemorates the 1991 Windhoek Declaration by African journalists, which called for an independent and pluralistic press, an initiative that has since shaped global media freedom standards.