Tinubu is a champion of press freedom, not interested in censorship — Minister Idris 

Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a staunch defender of press freedom, dismissing suggestions that the current administration seeks to suppress the media.

Speaking at the annual Blueprint Newspaper Lecture, Impact Series and Awards in Abuja, Idris said the President is deeply supportive of the media and fully aware of its pivotal role in shaping national development.

He disclosed that Tinubu had, from the outset of his administration, given him a clear mandate to perform his duties as a professional without interference.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is an ardent supporter of the media. He knows that the media is very crucial in nation-building and has told me repeatedly to do my job as best as I deem fit, being a professional myself. 

“President Tinubu will not, in any way, form or shape, stifle or obstruct the progress or work of the media in this country. However, we, as media professionals, must walk this delicate path together, ensuring the unity of society while holding leaders and government accountable,” Idris stated.

He underscored the crucial role of the media in sustaining democracy, noting that with this responsibility comes the need for careful judgement. 

“You have an enormous responsibility to hold the government and leaders to account, but because of your unique position, if not handled carefully, your actions could be harmful to society. It is important to discern between what benefits the nation and what may create division or destabilise it,” he added.

Despite ongoing challenges in the information space, Idris expressed optimism that the Nigerian media remains resilient and continues to thrive. He reaffirmed that President Tinubu stands as a committed advocate of press freedom and would never seek to hinder journalistic work.

Clarifying his own position, Idris noted that he is no longer the Chairman of Blueprint Newspapers, having relinquished the role upon assuming ministerial office.

“I am no longer the chairman of Blueprint Newspaper. I’m also an invitee to this occasion. I know that I was, in the past, at the forefront of organising this event for Blueprint, especially since its inception 14 years ago. 

“I must thank those who joined me in May 2005 to establish the newspaper: Malam Ibrahim Sheme, Malam Salisu Umar, Managing Director Hajia Zainab Okino, chairman of the Editorial Board, and all members of Blueprint. Thank you for keeping the flag flying. 

“I have not visited that office in about a year, but I wanted to see if the flag would indeed remain aloft. I am proud and pleased that what we started has continued to flourish,” he said.

The Minister commended the award recipients, stressing that their recognition was entirely the decision of the newspaper, free of any external influence.

Dignitaries present at the event included Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume; Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin; Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dr Dele Alake; Minister of Livestock Development Idi Mukhtar Maiha; the Etsu Nupe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; and keynote speaker Professor Attahiru Jega, among others.