May 3, 2024

The Lagos State Government has commended journalists for their commitment to the tenets of the profession as they mark the Y2024 World Press Freedom Day.

This is contained in a statement by the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso on Friday.

“The administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will continue to encourage Press Freedom and provide an enabling environment for good journalism to flourish”, Commissioner for Information and Strategy Gbenga Omotoso said in a statement issued today.

Calling on journalists to rededicate themselves to courageous and objective journalism, Omotoso quoted Mr. Governor as saying that the theme of this year’s celebration, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis”, lends credence to the need for professionals to pay attention to the unconventional events that have confronted the environment, particularly climate change, across nations.

“The emergence of climate change, global economic crisis and other challenges facing nations due to increased population make it mandatory for journalism practitioners to ensure reportage that would bring succour and hope to those who rely on the media for credible news worldwide,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He urged policymakers, journalists, media personnel, lawmakers, social media users and other stakeholders to embrace dialogue on ways of ensuring that journalism remains a beacon of hope.

Lagos State, the biggest home of the media in Africa, will always ensure press freedom and encourage the Fourth Estate of the Realm to play its critical role in our democracy without hindrance.