Press Freedom Day: Gombe Governor Hails Journalists, Urges Vigilance Against Misinformation
Gombe State Governor and Chairman of Northern States Governors’ Forum, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has urged journalists to continue to perform their role as watchdogs and guardians of public interests.
In a goodwill message on the occasion of this year’s World Press Freedom Day, Governor Inuwa Yahaya commended media practitioners in Gombe State for their dedication to promoting democratic ideals, emphasizing the crucial role of the Press in enlightening the public about government policies and global developments.
While recognizing the impact of digital era on press freedom and journalists’ safety, the Governor emphasized the need for responsible journalism in the face of evolving challenges.
The World Press Freedom Day, he said, serves as a call to affirm the importance of cherishing information as a public good, and exploring what can be done in the production, distribution and reception of content to strengthen journalism, and to advance transparency and empowerment while leaving no one behind.
He noted the impact of the digital era on the freedom of the press, the security of journalists, and access to information, advising them to always guard against fake news and misinformation as well as ensure accurate and balanced reportage of events and activities.
The NSGF Chairman assured to continue to work with the media as partners and critical allies in his determination to entrench transparency, accountability and openness in governance in Gombe state.