Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding press freedom and promoting responsible journalism as it joined the global community to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day.
Observed annually on May 3 and proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, the day serves as a moment for reflection on the state of media freedom worldwide, while also reinforcing the need to protect journalists and uphold the principles of independent and ethical reporting.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the state government described the occasion as more than ceremonial, noting that it provides an opportunity to renew resistance against threats to press freedom and recommit to building a free, responsible, and vibrant media landscape.
The statement highlighted this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace,” as a reminder of the critical role the media plays in fostering unity, stability, and sustainable development across societies.
The government, under the leadership of Abba Kabir Yusuf, said it remains committed to maintaining a media-friendly environment anchored on transparency, openness, and mutual respect.
It noted that this stance has earned recognition from the Nigeria Union of Journalists, which has previously described the administration as “journalist-friendly.”
According to the statement, the administration has institutionalised regular engagement with media stakeholders and continues to operate an open-door policy that encourages dialogue and collaboration.
The statement added that efforts are ongoing to support the growth of digital journalism, particularly through engagement with emerging media practitioners.
While acknowledging the opportunities presented by technological advancement, the government also stressed the need for professionalism and ethical responsibility in journalism.
It urged practitioners to remain vigilant against misinformation and fake news, especially in the age of social media.
The statement further assured that the state’s media policy is firmly rooted in respect for press freedom, adding that the government would not tolerate any form of intimidation or suppression of journalistic practice.
As part of its broader commitment, the administration pledged to prioritise the welfare of journalists and improve access to timely and accurate information, enabling the media to fulfil its constitutional role effectively.
The government also called on journalists and media organisations to uphold responsible journalism that promotes peace, development, and the collective interest of the public, stressing that a free press must also be fair and development-oriented.
Reiterating its position, the Kano State Government pledged to continue providing an enabling environment for media practice while urging journalists to remain professional, objective, and dedicated to societal progress.
