National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Riba?u, has urged journalists and the media to prioritise responsible reporting which promotes national cohesion and stability.
The NSA made these assertions in his keynote address at the ‘Civic Space Guard High-level Stakeholders Meeting on Safety of Journalists’, organised by the Wole Soyinka Centre on Investigative Journalism, on Thursday in Abuja, admitted that a free press is the backbone democracy further noted that the media and government are working from different directions to advance society.
Riba?u, who was represented by the Director of communication, Office of the NSA, Major-Gen. Samad Akesode, further noted that the media plays a vital role in shaping public perception and influencing national discours.
In his address, titled: ‘Promoting mutual understanding for a more robust civic space and Journalists safety, Riba?u said in part: As we navigate the complexities of our contemporary world, it is clear that a collaborative approach is essential for addressing the challenges we face. As far as this Government is concerned, we are committed to supporting journalists and the media in protecting the civic space, in line with extant laws”.
While making his address on the topic: ‘Medias Role in National Security, Riba?u said, The media plays a vital role in shaping public perception and influencing national discourse. Your platforms have the power to either fan the flames of conflict or foster peace and unity.
Riba?u, who enjoyed a robust relationship with the press while serving as first Chairman EFCC in the past, also spoke about how to promote mutual understanding. He also addressed the relevance of Peer Review or Self-Regulation, which he said should be encouraging media organisations to establish mechanisms for checks and balances, such as the Ombudsman mechanism implemented by the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria, (NPAN).
Ribadus address came after the opening remarks and key finding from the WSCIJs 2023 media monitoring report: Hushed voiced in an election years. The report, presented by the Executive Director/CEO, WSCIJ, Motunrayo Alaka, chronicled the many cases of infractions against journalists in the line of duty.
The occasion was moderated by Ohi Alegbe, a respected media personality in Nigeria. Other dignitaries present included: Dr. Kole Shettima, Africa Director, MacArthur Foundation, Presidential Media Aide, AbdulAziz AbdulAziz, Musikilu Mojeed, President, IPI Nigeria and editor- in-chief, Premium Times, ?anlami Nmodu, mni; Deputy President GOCOP and publisher, News Diary online, Yushau Shu’aib; PRNigeria; Rtd Gen. Chris Olukolade;former Defence Spokesman, Chido Onuma, of AFRICMIL amongst others.
