*The Federal Government welcomes the National Media Complaints Commission’s recommendations, including the directive to Daily Trust newspapers to issue ‘a public apology’ for its false reportage on the Samoa Agreement and take measures to prevent future occurrence

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has commended the National Media Complaints Commission (NMCC), the Nigerian media Ombudsman, for its impartial and thorough investigation, confirming Daily Trust’s report on the Samoa Agreement to be 鈥渋naccurate, misleading, and not in line with the Code of Ethics for journalists.鈥�

Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Honourable Minister for Information and National Orientation, Tuesday, September 24, 2024, said the NMCC’s ruling served as “a testament to the importance of journalistic integrity and accountability and also a reminder of the crucial role the media plays in shaping public perception through truthful and accurate reporting.”

Daily Trust’s misleading report on the Samoa Agreement

Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant to the Minister on Media, in a statement, noted Idris emphasised that the public expects that news outlets would adhere strictly to professional ethics and conduct by ensuring that their reportage is factual, fair, and balanced.

“This way, injurious reporting, such as the one done by Daily Trust could be effectively avoided,” noted the statement.

The Minister also asserted that the Federal Government recognises that a free press is a pillar of democracy.

He, however, cautioned that with this freedom also comes the responsibility to report news in a manner that is accurate and devoid of misinformation.

“It is only through this commitment to truth that the media can effectively hold the government and institutions accountable,” stated he.

Idris further explained the Federal Government appreciated the recommendations the NMCC has made, including the directive to Daily Trust to issue a public apology for its false report on the Samoa Agreement and take measures to prevent future occurrence.

The Minister equally stated that the call for increased transparency and proactive information dissemination by Federal Government institutions is duly noted.

He assured that steps would be taken to ensure Nigerian consumers are adequately informed about matters of public interest.

Idris said: “The Federal Government is committed to fostering an environment where the media thrives while also remaining accountable to the ethical standards of the profession.

“We call on all media organisations to continue to uphold these standards and work collaboratively in the dissemination of accurate information, which is essential for a well-informed and active citizenry.”

The statement added: “Let this ruling by the National Media Complaints Commission against Daily Trust serve as a benchmark for journalistic excellence, and also strengthen the bonds between the media, the government, and the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

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