The Federal Government has praised the National Media Complaints Commission (NMCC), Nigeria’s media watchdog, for its objective investigation, which found a report by Daily Trust on the Samoa Agreement to be inaccurate and misleading, violating the Nigerian Journalists’ Code of Ethics.
In a statement released by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, the government emphasized the importance of journalistic integrity and accountability. The statement highlighted that accurate and responsible reporting is crucial in shaping public perception, and urged media outlets to adhere strictly to ethical standards to avoid harmful misinformation.
The government acknowledged the NMCC’s recommendations, including a directive for Daily Trust to issue a public apology and take steps to prevent future errors. The FG also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a media environment that upholds professional standards while encouraging transparency in government communications.
Furthermore, the statement stressed the need for media organizations to continue collaborating in the dissemination of truthful and reliable information, which is essential for an informed and active citizenry. The ruling by the NMCC was seen as a benchmark for excellence in journalism and a reminder of the media’s role in maintaining accountability in society.