The Federal Government of Nigeria, on Monday, urged stronger collaboration among media organizations, government institutions, and other stakeholders to combat the escalating threats of disinformation and misinformation.
This call was made during 2026 World Press Freedom Day commemoration held in Abuja, emphasizing that collective action is crucial for safeguarding public trust.and national stability.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation,
highlighted the administration’s commitment to fostering responsible journalism.
He said, “This administration has prioritised collaboration with media stakeholders and international partners to promote responsible journalism, counter disinformation and misinformation”.
Idris affirmed that press freedom is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution, and the Federal Govt is dedicated to its protection.
He stated, “The Federal Government
fully recognises press freedom as a fundamental right, remains committed to fostering an environment where the media can operate freely, safely, and responsibly, in accordance with the democratic principles and the rule of law.”
The Minister strongly condemned any form of intimidation or attacks against journalists, asserting that such actions undermine democratic institutions.
“We condemn all forms of intimidation, unlawful harassment, or attacks against journalists. A media environment where journalists feel unsafe ultimately weakens democracy itself,” Idris remarked.
Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government has implemented measures to enhance transparency and access to information. 
These include sustained media engagement, effective implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, and strategic investments in public communication platforms.
A significant initiative mentioned was Nigeria’s partnership with UNESCO to establish the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) in Abuja.
This institute aims to empower citizens with critical thinking skills to navigate the digital information landscape.“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,” Idris explained.
The Minister also stressed the importance of journalistic responsibility, urging media professionals to uphold professionalism, fairness, and ethical standards.
He concluded, “The true test of press freedom lies not in our declarations, but in our actions, how safely journalists can do their work, how truthfully information is shared, and how responsibly it
is consumed.”Dr. Binyerem Ukaire, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, in her welcome address, underscored the event’s role as a vital platform for inter-institutional collaboration.
“This gathering reflects our shared
commitment to strengthening press freedom and fostering a more informed and inclusive society. It provides an opportunity for constructive engagement on how best to advance a media environment that is both free and responsible,” she noted.
Dr. Ukaire further emphasized the necessity for coordinated responses to the challenges posed by the evolving information ecosystem, particularly the proliferation of misinformation. She stated, “The expansion of digital platforms has introduced new complexities that require coordinated institutional responses, especially in addressing misinformation and strengthening public trust.”
The Ministry reiterated its dedication to the facilitating dialogue, strengthening partnerships, promoting professionalism within the media sector.
The Federal Government affirmed its commitment to collaborating with the media, civil society, and international partners to build a robust information system that supports democratic governance, national unity, and sustainable development.
The event saw the attendance of notable dignitaries, including representatives from the Inspector General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Press Council, and the Head of the UNESCO Abuja Office.
