The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has urged media professionals to work alongside President Bola Tinubu in advancing national progress, unity and sustainable development.
Idris made the appeal on Wednesday night in Abuja during the 7th Edition of the Business Day Public Service Award of Excellence and Dinner.
He explained that the gathering was not only a platform to celebrate achievers, but also a reminder of the vital partnership that should exist between the press and any sitting government.
According to him, over the past two years, the ministry has worked to reshape Nigeria’s communication system with an emphasis on openness, professionalism and governance that places citizens at the centre.
“We have also revitalised the national orientation structure, improved government-to-citizen communication, and strengthened reforms that encourage responsible media practice, ethical reporting and public accountability.
“One major achievement in this regard is the establishment of the UNESCO Category 2 Media and Information Literacy Institute in Abuja.
“This milestone was attained just three weeks ago. Several countries from Africa, Europe and Asia competed for the hosting rights of this first-of-its-kind Media and Information Literacy Centre.
“Nigeria eventually secured the hosting rights. The centre is set to function as a global hub for research, training, and the development of capacity in media literacy and responsible communication.
“I therefore urge members of the media to cooperate with President Tinubu so we can collectively pursue national unity, social cohesion and lasting development,” Idris said.
He stressed that the ministry remains committed to building a society that is better informed, more united and guided by positive values.
Idris added that public communication structures would continue to be strengthened, while reforms aimed at ensuring a more transparent and credible information space would be deepened.
He also appealed to Nigerians to stay united, focused and hopeful despite the current challenges, cautioning against the spread of misinformation.
He dismissed negative portrayals of Nigeria as intolerant on religious matters, noting that such claims do not reflect the country’s reality.
“Yes, we are dealing with security issues and other difficulties, which the present administration is tackling with determination.
“But we must not allow such misleading characterisations to derail the reforms initiated by President Tinubu.
“Indeed, Nigeria remains a nation that upholds freedom of religion, as clearly guaranteed in the Constitution,” he said.
Idris emphasised that at a time when the nation is making progress across various sectors, citizens should not be swayed by false narratives or distractions.
He was presented with the Public Service Award of Excellence at the event, alongside other honourees such as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of State for Petroleum, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri; Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu; and several officials from MDAs.