ABUJA, Nigeria – Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s minister of information and national orientation, has called on media professionals across Nigeria to exercise restraint in reporting on terrorists, bandits, and other criminal actors, warning that undue publicity can aid their agendas and harm national security.
Speaking during the seventh edition of the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series at the National Press Centre in Abuja on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the minister stressed the media’s role in safeguarding national unity and morale, particularly in support of the armed forces.
“The media, as gatekeepers and partners in nation-building, have a crucial role to play in supporting our military’s morale by highlighting their successes and sacrifices,” Idris said.
“We must deny these groups the undue publicity they crave. We must take them off the front pages and accurately report them as the criminals they are, without glorifying their acts or giving credence to their false narratives.”
He warned that terrorist organisations and other violent groups often exploit media and social media platforms to propagate fear, spread disinformation, and recruit new members.
In response, the Minister urged editors and journalists to adopt what he described as a “responsible and patriotic approach” in reporting, avoiding sensationalism and framing these actors appropriately.
“These are not freedom fighters; they are murderers, kidnappers, and destroyers, and they must be presented as such,” he added.
The Minister referenced President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting the government’s increased focus on enhancing national security through investment in modern military equipment, strengthened intelligence gathering, and international partnerships.
The agenda’s pillar on “Strengthening National Security for Peace and Prosperity,” he said, remains a central focus of the administration.
Idris also praised the Ministerial Press Briefing Series as a strategic initiative of his ministry designed to keep citizens informed about government activities.
“Through this interactive platform, which is being broadcast live on national television stations and streamed across social media platforms, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to transparency, accountability, and public engagement,” he said.
The Information Minister commended the media for their continued support of the briefing series and their broader contribution to informing the public about government reforms and policy implementation.
Also present at the briefing were the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas, both of whom gave updates on developments within their respective ministries.
