Vice-President Kashim Shettima has assured media practitioners that press freedom will remain firmly protected under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Addressing the 2025 Conference and Annual General Meeting of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday, Shettima said journalists play a central role in defending Nigeria’s democracy. The event, themed “Addressing Media Repression and Safeguarding Democratic Accountability in Nigeria,” gathered journalists, media executives and international press advocates.
Shettima said Nigerian journalists had historically prevented the rise of authoritarian rule by exposing abuses of power and providing accurate information during moments of national uncertainty. “Never in our history has any person or government succeeded in permanently suppressing the media,” he said.
The Vice-President insisted that media professionals must be allowed to work without intimidation. “We owe you a space devoid of harassment or fear. As a government, we must foster an environment where truth flourishes and your work is protected,” he said.
He applauded journalists for resisting disinformation and foreign manipulation, adding that their resilience has helped safeguard national stability. However, he cautioned the media against unethical practices, urging practitioners to prioritise accuracy over sensationalism.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to an independent press, noting that Tinubu’s administration is strengthening frameworks for ethical reporting while balancing national security concerns. He said government agencies operate under strict protocols during protests and public demonstrations.
IPI Nigeria President, Misikilu Mojeed, described the gathering as a crucial moment for assessing the state of journalism. He urged the government to curb the harassment of journalists and to strengthen safety mechanisms nationwide. Scott Griffen, Executive Director of IPI Global, commended the Nigerian chapter for its commitment to defending press freedom and called for stronger partnerships to address growing challenges.
