Nigeria To Review Cybercrime Act, Reaffirms Commitment To Press Freedom
The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its readiness to work hand-in-hand with the National Assembly, media, and key stakeholders in reviewing Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act to ensure it reflects a broad national consensus.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this following a meeting with the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Richard Mills, in Abuja.
According to the Minister, the Tinubu-led administration is determined to promote a balanced and widely acceptable law, stating,that they will work with the National Assembly, the media, and all stakeholders to ensure the Cybercrime Act serves its purpose and enjoys collective ownership.
The Minister reassured the media of government’s unwavering commitment to freedom of expression, describing it as the bedrock of democracy as according to him, no democratic experience can thrive without the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
He also highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to promote Media and Information Literacy as a tool against misinformation and fake news.
Ambassador Mills praised the Minister’s reaffirmation of press freedom, especially the statement made to mark World Press Freedom Day and encouraged the Ministry to actively participate in the legislative review of the Cybercrime Act.
This meeting marks the second official dialogue between the Minister and Ambassador Mills on safeguarding press freedom in Nigeria.
