President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated the critical role of press freedom in a democracy, as Nigeria joined the world to mark World Press Freedom Day on May 3.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, the president highlighted the importance of a free press in keeping societies informed and educated, and as a watchdog to hold leaders accountable.
President Buhari noted that his administration has ensured that Nigerian journalists have had the freedom to practice their art, and he expressed his delight that the rights of Nigerian journalists have been protected and upheld during his eight years in office.
The president charged media professionals to continue to be patriotic, work for the cohesion of the country, and exercise their freedom with a high degree of responsibility, News About Nigeria reports.
“Press freedom is critical to the success of any democracy. It ensures that governments are held accountable, and citizens are informed about what is happening in their country,” President Buhari said in the statement.
He also highlighted the theme for this year’s celebration, “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights,” noting that the right to freedom of expression is a fundamental human right that is essential to the protection and enjoyment of all other human rights.
Nigeria has had a mixed record on press freedom, with concerns raised over the safety of journalists and the closure of media houses critical of the government.
In the 2021 World Press Freedom Index, Nigeria ranked 120th out of 180 countries, indicating the need for continued efforts to protect and promote press freedom in the country.
As Nigeria joins the world to mark World Press Freedom Day, President Buhari’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of press freedom in a democracy and the need for governments to uphold and protect the rights of journalists to do their work without fear of intimidation or persecution
