On December 11, proprietors of leading media organisations, editors, reporters, special correspondents, veteran journalists and other key players in the media industry in Nigeria converged on Abuja for the 2024 conference of the International Press Institute (IPI) as they were joined by leaders from the executive,  branches of government, heads of security agencies, academics, civil society organizations and captains of industry to mark the day with deliberations on the challenges threatening the practice of journalism in the country.

The conference which had the theme: 'Democracy, Media Freedom and the Imperative of Protecting Nigeria's Civic Space', was followed by an annual general meeting where new executives were elected to run the organisation's affairs. This annual ritual is as old as the IPI itself, being one of the oldest in the global media circle; created in 1950 with headquarters in Vienna, Austria, preoccupied with advocating media free and journalists' rights worldwide.

At the conference held by the Nigerian chapter in Abuja, former Director-General of the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Prof. Tonnie Iredia delivered the keynote address on the theme of the conference where he tasked media practitioners on agenda setting as one of the most effective ways of influencing government policy and holding public officials accountable to the people. 

He also urged the media to reorganize itself, uphold is ethical values and revisit its mandate if educating the public on national issues and galvanizing mobilizing them to participate fully in governance. Prof. Iredia argued that journalists can only be relevant, free and impactful if they engage in investigative reporting and follow up on issues that the public should be kept abreast of. Iredia also expressed the view that the Nigerian media space is over-regulated, hindering the industry’s ability to achieve the freedom necessary for its effective operation.

Meany, in his message to the conference, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized his commitment to expanding the freedom of the press and ensuring that no policy of his government hinders press freedom. Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the President said he has taken it upon himself "to ensure that due process prevails and that the fundamental rights of the press are respected“.

In his remarks, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, acknowledged the role of the media in bringing about civil rule at various times in the country's history including the current fourth Republic. 

"I want to reaffirm the unwavering commitment of the present administration under the leadership of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deepening 

democracy, safeguarding media freedoms, and preserving Nigeria’s civic space; as a government, we recognize that a free and responsible press is not optional in our journey to true end enduring democracy. 

He stressed that the Tinubu administration is steadfast in its commitment to creating an environment where press freedom thrives and where every citizen has the right to voice their opinions without fear of intimidation. He also disclosed that the administration is pursuing reforms to strengthen institutions, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that democratic values remain sacrosanct.

Ribadu acknowledged the fact that as the fourth estate of the realm, the media plays a critical role in this process, not only by holding power accountable but also by fostering constructive dialogue and promoting national unity.

He however noted that while it is critical to respect the right to free expression, it is imperative to recognize that the misuse of this freedom can lead to devastating consequences for the country. He therefore appealed to media practitioners and executives to "rise to the challenge of ensuring that journalistic practices adhere to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism".

On 12 December 2024 new exco of NPI Nigeria were elected for  another three years.

 Danjuma Katsina

Is a member of IPI Nigeria

Editor in chief of Katsina Times media group.