World Press Freedom Day: Nigerian journalists enjoy protection under me, says Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has rejoiced with the media on occasion of World Press Freedom Day, celebrated every May 3 internationally.
World Press Day is held annually to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press and remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression enshrined under Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights and mark the anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration, a statement of free press principles put together by African newspaper journalists in Windhoek in 1991.
This year’s celebration marks 30 years since the UN General Assembly’s declaration.
In a statement on Tuesday by Femi Adesina, his spokesperson, Buhari said the landmark is a tribute to media professionals, who risk their lives to keep society informed and educated.
On this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of Expression as a driver for all other human rights”, Buhari expressed delight that the rights of Nigerian journalists have been protected and upheld in the past eight years.
“We have kept the faith. We have ensured that Nigerian journalists have had unfettered freedom to practice their art, and on this occasion of World Press Freedom Day, we recommit to that resolution, even as we wind down in office,” the president said.
Buhari however charged media professionals to continue to be patriotic, work for the cohesion of the country, and exercise their freedom with a high deal of responsibility.
