A free press is crucial to tackling the climate crisis, the federal government says

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, the Federal Government has called for commitment to the principles of a free and independent press.

The State Minister for the Environment, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, made the call during a press conference to commemorate the World Press Freedom Day, with the theme: “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,” Friday in Abuja.

He said press freedom is indispensable to promote transparency, accountability and social justice, which is crucial for communicating the threat posed by the climate crisis and making informed decisions to be more environmentally responsible.

“You as journalists have a crucial role to play in driving the formulation and implementation of environmental policies and also in shaping public perception of the crisis. So let’s work together, across sectors and borders, to harness the power of the media to tackle the environmental crisis and promote sustainable development.

“A press for the planet is therefore what is needed most at this time if we are to get the public behind global and national agendas such as net zero, the energy transition, biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction, 30 by 30, ending plastic pollution and of such. intended to tackle the environmental crisis,” the minister said.

Salako noted that journalism plays a critical role in advancing environmental agendas, serving as a catalyst for change, a watchdog for accountability and a voice for the voiceless.

However, he said ignorance, lack of awareness and appropriate knowledge about the climate crisis are still widespread, while calling for greater support in the pursuit of environmental interests and citizenship so that all creatures on earth can thrive in harmony with the planet.

“We know that our behavior and lifestyle are causing an environmental crisis. We also know that changing behavior and lifestyle is not easy to achieve. Therefore, we must remain persistent in our advocacy, creating awareness, sensitizing and educating the public,” the minister said.