FG Reaffirms Support for Media, Cultural Institutions as RATTAWU Unveils Roadmap to Golden Jubilee
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting institutions and organisations contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s media and cultural sectors as part of efforts to strengthen responsible communication, ethical journalism and national development.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this on Tuesday in Abuja during the unveiling of the roadmap to the Golden Jubilee celebration of Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union at 50.
The Minister described RATTAWU as a strategic partner in nation-building and a key institution within Nigeria’s media and creative landscape, noting that the union’s 50th anniversary represents a significant national milestone celebrating the contributions of media, theatre, arts and cultural professionals to democracy, unity and development.
He stressed that freedom of expression and press freedom remain important pillars of democratic governance but should always be exercised responsibly in the interest of national cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
“Responsible communication is critical to preserving national unity, strengthening democracy, promoting peaceful coexistence, and combating the growing challenge of misinformation and fake news,” he said.
Idris also cautioned against the spread of false information and divisive narratives, stating that freedom of speech must be balanced with responsibility.
“Freedom of speech must always go hand in hand with responsibility. We must continue to reject misinformation, fake news, divisive narratives, and irresponsible use of media platforms, while protecting the constitutional rights of Nigerians to lawful expression and constructive criticism,” he added.
The Minister noted that Nigeria’s democratic progress has continued to benefit from the work of broadcasters, artists, writers and other communication professionals who have used their platforms to promote accountability, public enlightenment and national cohesion.
He further highlighted the importance of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute, describing it as a critical institution dedicated to advancing media literacy, ethical communication and digital awareness amid increasing concerns over misinformation and information disorder.
“At a time when the world is confronted with fake news, disinformation, digital manipulation and information disorder, institutions such as IMILI have become increasingly vital,” he stated.
The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to creating an enabling environment for media and cultural workers to thrive responsibly.
He also commended RATTAWU leadership under Prince Emeka Kalu for sustaining the union’s vision and legacy.
The event attracted senior government officials, labour leaders, media executives and stakeholders from Nigeria’s media and creative sectors.
FG Reaffirms Support for Media, Cultural Institutions as RATTAWU Unveils Roadmap to Golden Jubilee