The Federal Government has acknowledged the challenges that journalists face in carrying out their vital work, adding that as environmental defenders, journalists often confront threats, harassment, and violence for their courageous efforts to expose environmental crimes and protect the natural world.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris who made the disclosure at the celebration of World Press Freedom Day in Abuja on Friday 3rd of May, reaffirmed the FG unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of journalists and ensuring their safety and security.
He said, “As a Ministry and Government, we provided the most unfettered access to Journalists and provided the enabling environment that has continue to encourage the Nigeria media grow in leaps and bounds.
“It is our conviction, that Press freedom is not just a fundamental human right; it is also essential for environmental sustainability. Without a free and independent press, we cannot hope to address the complex environmental challenges we face”, Idris added.
Speaking of this year’s theme ‘’ A press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of Environmental Crisis”, the Minister said this call to action as the world confronted by an environmental crisis of unprecedented magnitude, one that poses a threat not only to the planet but to the very future of humanity.
“Climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource depletion are not abstract concepts; they are harsh realities that demand immediate and decisive action. In the face of this crisis, journalists emerge as guardians of truth and champions of accountability.
“They illuminate environmental injustices, expose wrongdoing, and amplify the voices of those most affected by environmental degradation. Through their investigative reporting, they hold governments and corporations accountable for their actions and advocate for policies that promote sustainability and safeguard our planet.
He pointed out that this year’s theme resonates deeply with his ministry’s vision and the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priority areas, which prioritize restoring trust, reorienting national values, and creating an enabling environment for the media which underscores the crucial role of journalism in addressing the environmental crisis.
The Minister who was pleased to state that the present administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognizes the importance of responsible media coverage in enlightening, informing, and educating Nigerians and the world, added that through credible and timely information, everyone can be well-informed, and the media can serve as a valuable tool for fostering transparency and accountability.
In his words, the Minister of State for Environment, Dr Izaic Adekunle Salako said Journalism plays a pivotal role in advancing enviromental agendas, serving as a catalyst for change, a watchdog for accountability, and a voice for the voiceless.
“Through investigative reporting, insightful analysis, and compelling storytelling, journalists shed light on the pressing issues of environmental crisis facing our nation and inspire mass action towards positive change. Without such mass actions, we will be unable to win the fight against the environmental challenges confronting our country.
He therefore called on govt to reaffirm its commitment to the principles of a free and independent press, for effective climate journalism, saying press freedom is indispensable to promote transparency, accountability and social justice, critical to communicating the threat posed by climate crisis and making informed decisions to be more environmentally responsible.
He said, “You as journalists have a critical role to play in driving environmental policy formulation and implementation and also in shaping public perception about the crisis. Let us therefore work together, across sectors and borders, to harness the power of media in addressing environmental crisis and advancing sustainable development”.
