The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, has assured media practitioners of the Federal Government’s commitment to upholding press freedom.

Adeshina said this at the public presentation, on Tuesday, of the first two volumes of a book entitled, “Nigerian Media Leaders: Voices beyond the Newsroom,” written by Mr. Richard Ikiebe.

The event was held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.

The presidential aide said the Federal Government was aware that it would not break much ground to develop the country if it did not work with the media.

He said President Muhammadu Buhari recognised the media as an ally and a critical partner in the quest to build a worthy Nigeria.

“Our president is set to champion the freedom of the press because he sees the institution as a vital building block for national development,” he said.

Adeshina said the media had always played critical roles at different epochs in the history of the country.

“The media will be more conciliatory, lending a critical hand as the government strives to build a new country devoid of official corruption,” he said.

Adeshina commended the author of the book, saying their presentation was a watershed at this point in the history of the country.

(NAN)