Shettima declares press freedom non-negotiable
Vice President Kashim Shettima
Abdullateef Fowewe
Vice President Kashim Shettima has affirmed that Nigerian journalists are the nation’s frontline defense against authoritarian rule, promising unwavering government support for press freedom under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
This was made known in a statement on Tuesday by the Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha.
Speaking at the 2025 International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria Conference in Abuja, themed “Addressing Media Repression and Safeguarding Democratic Accountability in Nigeria,” Shettima said, “We owe you a space of practice devoid of harassment, intimidation, or fear. That much is non-negotiable.”
He emphasised the government’s commitment to creating “an environment where truth can thrive without obstruction and where the work you do is protected rather than policed.”
Highlighting the media’s historic role, Shettima stated, “It is impossible, utterly impossible, to have a successful dictator in Nigeria.
Never in our history has any person or government succeeded in suppressing the media permanently.”
Praising journalists’ resilience, he added, “You have stood firmly against disinformation and refused to surrender your pens to falsehoods or foreign puppeteers. This honourable stance sets you apart.”
However, the Vice President urged the media to uphold ethical standards, cautioning against fabricated stories and stressing the need for “a professional culture that elevates verification above virality, and nationhood above nihilism.”
Echoing this stance, Information Minister, Mohammed Idris reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to enhancing press freedom and independent journalism.
He described President Tinubu and Shettima as “some of the most media-friendly leaders Nigeria has produced,” while committing to balanced security measures that respect journalistic rights during civil demonstrations.
IPI Nigeria President Misikilu Mojeed called for collective action among journalists to protect their profession, stating, “Solidarity is the journalists’ greatest line of defence.”
He urged the government to ensure the safety of media practitioners nationwide.
Scott Griffen, Executive Director of IPI Global, praised Nigeria’s efforts and stressed the importance of “genuine collaboration among stakeholders” to strengthen independent journalism amid ongoing challenges.
