By Rabiu Sanusi
The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a free, responsible and peace-driven media as it joined the global community to commemorate the 2026 World Press Freedom Day.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said the occasion goes beyond celebration, serving as a moment for reflection on the role of the media in safeguarding democracy and fostering societal development.
Marked annually on May 3, World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993 to underscore the importance of press freedom worldwide.
According to Waiya, this year theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace,” highlights the critical role of the media in promoting unity, stability and sustainable development across societies.
The commissioner noted that the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has continued to position Kano as a media-friendly state through policies anchored on openness, transparency, and mutual respect.
He added that the government’s efforts have earned it recognition from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) as a “Journalist-Friendly” administration.
Waiya disclosed that the government has institutionalised regular engagement with media stakeholders, maintaining an open-door policy that encourages dialogue and collaboration.
He further stressed that deliberate measures are being taken to support the growth of digital journalism, particularly through sustained engagement with emerging media practitioners.
While acknowledging the evolving nature of the media landscape, the commissioner urged journalists to uphold professionalism and ethical standards, especially in the face of challenges posed by misinformation and fake news on social media platforms.
He also reaffirmed that the state’s media policy is guided by respect for press freedom, assuring that the government would not tolerate any form of intimidation or suppression of journalistic practice.
“As part of our commitment, we will continue to prioritise the welfare of journalists and ensure access to timely and accurate information to enable them perform their constitutional duties effectively,” the statement added.
The government called on media organisations and practitioners to remain committed to responsible journalism that promotes peace, development and the collective interest of the people.
It emphasised that while press freedom remains essential, the media must also be fair, objective, and development in its reportage.
The statement concluded with a renewed pledge by the Kano State Government to sustain an enabling environment for media practice, while encouraging journalists to remain professional and dedicated to societal advancement.
