The Kano State Government has clarified the role of its newly established Media Information Policy Drafting Committee, emphasizing that it is not designed to restrict press freedom or impede journalists in their work. The 18-member committee was inaugurated at the Secretary to the State Government’s office, where officials highlighted its purpose of strengthening the relationship between the government and the media.
Commissioner for Information Ibrahim Waiya described the committee as a historic initiative for the state, noting that it marks the first time in 50 years that a comprehensive policy framework is being developed. “This Policy Committee has nothing to do with stopping the media from doing its jobs, but rather to cement the already existing relationship between the government and the journalists,” Waiya stated. He further explained that the initiative aims to establish clear boundaries and guidelines for both government operations and journalistic practices.
The state has already implemented various policies across multiple sectors, including electricity, solid minerals, women’s economic empowerment, and climate change, all of which have been approved by the State Executive Council. State Secretary to the Government Umar Faruk Ibrahim provided historical context for the initiative, noting that it originated in 2023 when the previous administration’s transition committee recommended the development of policies for key sectors that lacked formal guidelines.
Ibrahim outlined the committee’s mandate, which includes reviewing existing documents, convening stakeholder meetings, engaging relevant government agencies and media practitioners, and developing a comprehensive state policy framework on international media communication. The committee’s composition reflects a holistic approach, incorporating perspectives from academia, practicing journalists, and other stakeholders to ensure a balanced policy framework.
The government has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability while acknowledging the critical role of media in the digital age. Officials stressed that the policy aims to provide clear direction for government-media interactions while respecting professional journalism ethics and maintaining press freedom. This initiative is part of broader governance reforms in Kano State, focusing on establishing structured frameworks for various sectors of public life.
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