President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday, exchanged Eid greetings with his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in the course of which they discussed bilateral relations and matters of global interest.
Malam Garba Shehu, the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, confirmed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday.
Shehu stated that during their phone call which was initiated by the Turkish leader, the two leaders also covered a range of issues pertaining to the ongoing discussions between the two countries on the supply and local manufacture of military equipment as well as matters of strategic cooperation.
He disclosed that Buhari used the opportunity to especially thank his Turkish counterpart for his commitment and support to Nigeria in the ongoing war against terrorism.
The presidential aide revealed that President Buhari also received Eid greetings from former Nigerian Military Head of State, retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon.
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Gowon congratulated the president for witnessing the Sallah following 30 days of fasting, and prayed for peace, unity and progress in the country.
Also, in a related development, President Muhammadu Buhari urged media professionals to be mindful of sponsored political news or publications capable of inciting hatred, division, violence, and chaos in the country.
The president, who made the call in a statement by his spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, on Monday in Abuja, said this had become imperative as 2023 general election approaches .
Buhari, who was speaking on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, observed every year on May 3, also challenged the media to ensure that the electoral umpire and other stakeholders play their roles in delivering free, fair, credible and transparent elections to Nigerians
‘‘We must stay united in supporting media professionals who work hard to de-escalate violent conflict and promote peaceful societies without compromising the responsibility to report,’’ he said.
He urged government information managers to ensure that the press and the general public have access to facts and figures of government information, without tears.
Buhari assured that, in line with the theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Day, ”Journalism under digital siege,” government agencies under his watch would always stand against actions that are capable of limiting the preservation of the freedom of the Press guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
According to him, the Federal Government is working hard to support media organizations in Nigeria through provision of better internet access to underserved communities, and achieve 95 per cent digital literacy by 2030.
The president saluted ”the courage and determination of those who daily go the extra time, sometimes at great personal risks, to keep the society well informed.
Buhari reiterated his administration’s commitment to freedom of the press, pledging to continue ensuring the protection of the rights and privileges of journalists in the lawful performance of their professional duties.
He charged the Nigerian Press to use World Press Freedom Day to reflect on the need to embrace the best professional standards and practices, especially in the build-up to the forthcoming general elections.
According to him, the free performance of media roles and responsibilities during the electoral process is as important as the sanctity and will of Nigerians, expressed through the ballot box.
He rejoiced with the Nigerian media, and recognized their role in strengthening democracy.
”On behalf of Nigerians, President Buhari thanks members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm whose diligent work help in guaranteeing peace, stability, and progress in the country,” he said.