Uba Sani reaffirms commitment to free media as Kaduna marks World Press Freedom Day

Kaduna State has joined the global community to commemorate the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, with Governor Uba Sani reaffirming his administration’s commitment to upholding press freedom and protecting journalists.

The World Press Freedom Day 2026, themed “Shaping a Future at Peace,” is being marked worldwide, with reflections anchored by a conference organised by UNESCO in Lusaka, Zambia.

The theme highlights the critical role of a free, independent, and responsible media in promoting peace, protecting human rights, and supporting sustainable development amid rising threats to free expression.

The Kaduna State Ministry of Information and Culture, in a statement issued on Monday, May 4, 2026, described the media as a cornerstone of democratic governance, noting its role in informing citizens, shaping public discourse, and strengthening accountability.

The Kaduna State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, said Sani’s administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for journalists to operate freely and responsibly without undue interference.

“Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to press freedom reflects a firm belief that a free, responsible, and credible media is indispensable to peace, good governance, and democratic stability, as well as an informed and engaged society,” the commissioner stated.

He further noted that at a time when misinformation and disinformation threaten public trust, social cohesion, and national security, the role of ethical, accurate, and responsible journalism has never been more critical.

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“As misinformation and disinformation threaten public trust and national cohesion, ethical, accurate, and professional journalism remains non-negotiable, and Kaduna State will continue to protect journalists while promoting integrity and accountability in the media space,” Maiyaki said.

The statement government further promised to deepen collaboration with media stakeholders, support capacity-building initiatives, and advance efforts aimed at countering false information and strengthening credible journalism.

It also called on all stakeholders to uphold the values of truth, responsibility, and mutual respect as essential pillars for building a peaceful, informed, and democratic society.