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Fake News Threatens Democracy, Gov Idris Tells Journalists at Arewa Media Summit
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has urged journalists and media practitioners to uphold professionalism and ethical reporting, warning that fake news and misinformation pose serious threats to democracy, national unity and good governance.
Speaking through the Kebbi State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Yakubu Ahmed, at the 2026 Arewa Media Summit in Kano, the governor said responsible journalism remains essential to promoting accountability and strengthening public trust.
Governor Idris reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting ethical media practice and good governance. He also said Kebbi State has benefited from the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu through major infrastructure projects, highlighting the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway as a key project expected to boost trade, improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth across Kebbi State and the North-West.
He commended the organiser of the summit, AbdulAziz AbdulAziz, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Public Enlightenment, describing the programme as timely and important for strengthening professionalism, objectivity and ethical standards among journalists and social media practitioners.
Representing President Tinubu, Mohammed Idris stressed the need for continuous training of journalists to ensure accurate, balanced and responsible reporting.
He said effective media coverage depends on a proper understanding of government policies and programmes, enabling journalists to provide factual information while promoting peace, national unity and development.
Host Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf described the summit as a significant initiative to strengthen ethical journalism and combat misinformation.
According to him, the event aims to bridge the gap between misinformation and factual reporting while fostering stronger partnerships with media organisations, including the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, as well as new media practitioners.
In his welcome address, AbdulAziz AbdulAziz said the summit, themed “Government-Citizen Accord: Accountability, Responsibility and Ethical Media Practice,” was designed to promote responsible journalism and improve public understanding of government policies.
Vanguard report that he also thanked President Tinubu and Governor Yusuf for supporting the successful hosting of the event.