Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has cautioned that no country can prosper in an environment plagued by fake news and disinformation, stressing the need for a media culture grounded in integrity and accountability.
Speaking through his representative, Hon. Patrick Umoh of Akwa Ibom, at the 2025 Press Week and Award Ceremony of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council in Abuja on Tuesday, Abbas reiterated the House’s commitment to upholding press freedom while advancing reforms aimed at promoting gender equality and legislative transparency.
In his address, Abbas commended the media for its pivotal role in nation-building, democratic consolidation, and public education. He highlighted recent parliamentary efforts such as the Open National Assembly initiative and the live broadcast of plenary and public hearings as steps aimed at increasing transparency and public engagement.
“These measures are aimed at eliminating information gaps and building trust between citizens and their elected representatives. A strong democracy must always be inclusive, transparent, and accountable,” he stated.
Touching on gender equity, the Speaker noted the House’s ongoing push for the passage of the Reserved Special Seats Bill for Women. He disclosed that a stakeholder roundtable on the subject would be held over two days as part of efforts to build consensus around the proposal.
Abbas used the occasion to urge media professionals to stay true to the ethics of journalism, warning that misinformation remains a threat to democracy and development. “No nation thrives on fake news or disinformation. Together, we must build a media space anchored in truth, professionalism, and public trust,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, hailed the NUJ FCT Council for hosting the week-long celebration, describing it as a platform for renewing national commitments to free speech, transparency, and accountability.
He praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its stance on press freedom, noting that media engagement is crucial to the success of key national initiatives, including the Renewed Hope Housing Programme and the National Urban Renewal Initiative.
“Visibility is not enough. Citizens must understand the purpose behind government actions. That’s where the media comes in bridging the gap between policy and public understanding,” Dangiwa said.
He advocated stronger legal protections and sustainable funding mechanisms for independent media outlets, emphasizing that democracy cannot thrive without secure and empowered journalists.
The Minister also reiterated the ministry’s readiness to support the proposed Journalists’ Village in Abuja, assuring that land will be allocated for the project once a proper layout is provided by the NUJ.
Former Nasarawa State Governor and current Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Senator Tanko Al-Makura, was honored with the NUJ Media Personality of the Year Award during the ceremony. In his acceptance remarks, Al-Makura described the press as the conscience of the nation and urged investment in media literacy programs at both community and school levels.
“True democracy guarantees rights, protects life, and uplifts the collective. None of these are possible without a free, informed, and responsible press,” he noted.
In her opening remarks, NUJ FCT Council Chairperson Grace Ike said the annual Press Week serves as a moment for journalists to reflect on their role in national development. She called on media professionals to remain dedicated to truth and ethical journalism.
“The Nigerian press must continue to lead in shaping national discourse through credible, balanced, and fearless reporting,” she said, while appreciating all dignitaries and awardees for their presence and contributions.
