Former military president of Nigeria, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) has claimed that his administration played a pivotal role in promoting freedom of expression and media liberalisation in the country.

In his newly released autobiography, A Journey In Service, Babangida highlighted the policies initiated during his regime that facilitated media ownership and strengthened democratic values through a vibrant press.

“Our media remains a source of strength and pride to all of us. We may have had differences in the information management practice among our media. But no one can deny that Nigeria’s robust media remains a source of strength,” he wrote.

According to the former military leader, the country’s democratic credentials are partly due to the media’s role in upholding freedom of expression.

He expressed confidence in his administration’s contributions to this fundamental right.

“Our credentials as a democratic nation are partly due to the freedom of expression manifested by our media. In my little way, I am sure I have contributed to entrenching this most essential freedom of expression.

“Not only did we, as an administration, liberalise media ownership, but we also removed the mystery around media ownership.”

Babangida further emphasised the impact of media involvement in national discourse and noted that even in retirement, he has remained accessible to the press.

“I am proud that our policy initiative in this regard facilitated an explosion of talent and investment in media enterprises.

“Today, counting the number of radio stations, television stations, and online and real-time print media in our country is hard. In repetition of the famous Chinese saying, ‘Let a million flowers bloom.’

“In my retirement, I have opened my doors to the media. I have granted countless interviews, expressed countless views and, where necessary, been part of the tremendous Nigerian debate that keeps raging daily.

“Our nation is more beautiful because of the diversity of opinions and perspectives on any given issue.”

Babangida ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993, a period marked by significant media developments as well as controversies.

Vanguard News