Kano State Government Inaugurates Committee to Formulate Media and Information Policy Framework
The Kano State Government has taken a significant step toward regulating information dissemination by establishing an 18-member standing committee tasked with drafting a comprehensive policy framework for media activities. This initiative aims to mainstream and guide information flow across various media platforms within the state.
Government Assures No Press Gagging, Focuses on Combating Disinformation
During the inauguration ceremony held on Thursday, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Faruq Ibrahim, emphasized that the move is not intended to gag the press. Instead, he clarified that the policy is designed to address rampant cases of disinformation in the public space. Ibrahim described the approach as a conscious strategy to enhance governance and government activities in Kano.
"This policy formation relating to media and information will serve as a guiding principle for governance, similar to existing state policies on agriculture, energy, and economic development," Ibrahim stated. He further explained that despite existing national regulatory frameworks, the state policy is necessary to enforce legal implications and regulations specific to Kano.
Commissioner Highlights Need for Clear Boundaries and Ethical Journalism
Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, elaborated on the government's intent. "We are compelled to take up this mandate to measure our boundaries as a government and to also know the boundaries of journalism practice," Waiya said. He noted that the policy aims to chart a direction and set limits for coexistence between the government and media practitioners.
Waiya underscored the critical importance of the information and media space, particularly in the digital era. "We feel obliged that we have a responsibility to have these policies in place that can help cement and strengthen the relationship between the government and media practitioners in the state," he added.
Committee Composition and Terms of Reference
The committee, which includes diverse stakeholders such as academia and media practitioners, is expected to develop a holistic policy. Key responsibilities include:
- Examining national policies and relevant documents to develop a state framework on international media communication.
- Convening stakeholder meetings to discuss proposals and draft the policy framework.
- Engaging relevant government agencies, media practitioners, and civil society organizations in the policy development process.
- Undertaking necessary steps to achieve the outlined outcomes.
The committee is chaired by Commissioner for Information Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, with Alhaji Mohammed Danyaro serving as Co-Chair. Other members include Alhaji Ahmad Aminu, Mohammad Garba, Malam Mukhtari Magaji, Malam Ado Saidu Warawa, Malam Salisu Ibrahim Fagge, Dr. Abubakar Shehu Minjibir, Dr. Halima Kamilu, Hajiya Aishatu Sule, Dr. Hassan Ya'u, Alhaji Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Malam Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, Alhaji Bello Danmaisoro, and Sani Abba Yola as Secretary, along with three additional co-Secretaries.
This initiative reflects Kano State's commitment to fostering a transparent and accountable media environment while addressing the challenges posed by digital misinformation.
