Fear not, Nigerians’ rights to free speech, opposition guaranteed – FG
…Says Tinubu administration committed to transparency, public engagement
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of Nigerians, particularly their rights to free speech and healthy opposition.
This declaration was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the ongoing 2025 Ministerial Media Briefing Series in Abuja on Thursday.
Idris emphasised that President Bola Tinubu, a staunch democrat, is fully dedicated to safeguarding the rights enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
Earlier, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and his counterpart from the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, briefed the media at the 5th edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Session.
“I want to re-emphasise that President Tinubu, as a foremost democrat, is fully committed to protecting the constitutionally guaranteed rights of all Nigerians, and also encourages constructive criticism and healthy opposition because of their essential role in reinforcing and deepening our democratic framework.
“I hereby take the liberty to reaffirm the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration to upholding press freedom and creating a conducive environment for media practice in Nigeria. This administration believes that a free and responsible press is essential for good governance, transparency, and national development,” Idris said.
The Minister used the occasion to congratulate the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on its 70th anniversary, saying it’s a milestone that reflects the Union’s enduring commitment to press freedom and journalistic excellence.
“I would like to once again express my appreciation to the media for your dedication in covering the Ministerial Briefing Session. Today’s briefing takes place within a significant period, as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is marking its 70th anniversary. This is a milestone that reflects NUJ’s enduring commitment to press freedom and journalistic excellence,” he stated.
Idris said the ongoing Ministerial Briefing Session spearheaded by his ministry, highlights the government’s commitment to accountability and equally serves as a platform to keep Nigerians informed about the policies and programmes of the Tinubu Administration.
“This session is a vital opportunity for the Honourable Ministers to update Nigerians on the progress and significant milestones achieved under their stewardship. Through this interactive forum, which is enhanced by multimedia channels, we reaffirm our commitment to transparency and public engagement by providing direct insights into the policies, initiatives, and reforms shaping the ministries’ objectives,” he said.
Idris described the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Tuggar, as a seasoned diplomat, who deserves commendation for his commitment to promoting Nigeria’s image on the global stage through proactive diplomacy, strategic international engagements, and a clear articulation of Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
Also, he praised the Minister of Interior, Dr. Tunji-Ojo, for bringing remarkable innovation towards repositioning the Ministry in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.
