By Asuquo Cletus
As the world marks the 2025 World Press Freedom Day, the Cross River State Government has restated its unwavering commitment to the protection of press freedom and the rights of journalists operating within the state and beyond.
In a statement issued on Thursday, by the Commissioner for Information, Erasmus Ekpang, the government emphasized the vital role of the media in strengthening democratic values, promoting transparency, and holding power to account.
The statement comes in celebration of the 32nd edition of World Press Freedom Day, themed “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Press Freedom and the Media.”
Commissioner Ekpang praised the resilience and dedication of journalists, describing them as “pivotal purveyors of truth and societal cohesion.” He underscored the need to protect journalists from harassment, intimidation, and violence, especially in light of the growing threats they face globally.
“Government shall continue to fight all enemies of a free press society that promote discrimination and crimes against journalists in the course of performing their legitimate duties,” Ekpang stated.
Highlighting the evolving landscape of media, the Commissioner acknowledged the disruptive but transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in journalism. He called on media practitioners to embrace digital tools while adhering to the highest standards of truth and ethics.
“As an administration with the ‘People First’ mantra, Governor Bassey Edet Otu remains committed to supporting a free and independent press that fosters credible reporting, civic engagement, and technological advancement,” the statement added.
The Commissioner further condemned the persecution of journalists in repressive regimes around the world, urging for global restraint and the protection of press freedom as a universal right.
The Cross River State Government also reiterated its intention to promote the digitization of the media sector within the state to ensure that journalists benefit from emerging technologies while maintaining journalistic integrity.
As the state joins the international community to honor the press, the government congratulated journalists across Nigeria and the world, with a special salute to those practicing in Cross River, for their invaluable contributions to society.
World Press Freedom Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, serves as a reminder to governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom and to reflect on the challenges facing media professionals globally.
