Federal Government has urged the media to hold public office holders accountable with fairness, professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility.

It stressed that balanced journalism remained critical to deepening democracy and strengthening public trust in governance.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, gave the charge yesterday in Abuja during a media briefing ahead of the 75th anniversary of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN).

Idris said while the media must continue to scrutinise those in power, it must do so in a manner that promotes fairness, national unity and informed public discourse.

He emphasised that responsible journalism was not only about exposing wrongdoing but also about providing context and encouraging constructive engagement.

“FRCN, as a public broadcaster, must continue to amplify the voices of ordinary Nigerians while using its reach to promote constructive national conversation and accountability,” Idris emphasised.

The minister described the anniversary as a landmark in Nigeria’s broadcasting history, noting that the corporation has remained a constant voice through the country’s defining moments.

He described FRCN as a companion of Nigeria’s independence and a witness to its national journey over the decades.

Idris also reflected on the current state of the information sector, which, according to him, has received renewed attention in recent times.

He urged stakeholders to move away from complaints and focus on improving standards and performance, expressing optimism that funding and support would continue to improve.

In his remarks, veteran journalist and statesman Babagana Kingibe, who was invited to cast the 4 o’clock news as part of the anniversary activities, praised the evolution of broadcasting in Nigeria.

Earlier, the Director General of FRCN, Mohammed Bulama, outlined measures taken to reposition the corporation in line with modern broadcasting realities.

He disclosed that the organisation had embraced digital transformation through the introduction of new platforms, including an online radio service, a web application and a mobile app aimed at reaching wider and younger audiences.

The anniversary celebration is expected to feature a series of activities later in the year, culminating in a broader event to honour past contributors, celebrate excellence and chart a forward-looking path for broadcasting in Nigeria.