The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has strongly criticized social media handlers for their lack of professionalism and unpatriotic behavior in disseminating information. Although he did not specify the online platforms breaching ethical standards in the journalism profession, he emphasized that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to upholding responsible journalism and will not suppress any media organization.
Minister Idris made these remarks after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday. He stated that President Tinubu’s primary responsibility is to restore the confidence of Nigerians in their country, and therefore, a national dialogue on orientation and reorientation will soon be initiated to rebuild trust among Nigerians.
In response to questions from State House correspondents regarding the management of social media excesses, the minister emphasized that responsible journalism is the way forward. While the government and President Tinubu are committed to ensuring press freedom, they also recognize the importance of responsible and accountable reporting. Minister Idris pleaded against misrepresentations and the circulation of false news by some individuals on social media, stressing the need for patriotic acts in journalism.
The Minister further lamented the loss of values and declining trust in the nation among citizens, which impedes the realization of the leaders’ aspirations and dreams. Addressing these concerns, he revealed that the administration of President Tinubu is actively working to restore discipline, patriotism, and a belief in the nation’s ideals that were instilled by the founding fathers.
Minister Idris emphasized that the Federal Ministry of Information’s role is being redefined to prioritize national orientation and reintroduce these core values. President Tinubu has given him a clear directive to reignite faith in Nigeria, through a national discourse on orientation or reorientation. The aim of this initiative is to restore Nigerians’ belief in their country, as citizens have become increasingly disillusioned even with the leaders they themselves elected. The minister observed with concern that collective symbols of national identity, such as flags, are no longer prominently displayed, even in public buildings abroad.
The Minister also revealed that the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation is formulating a comprehensive plan to revitalize the sector. This initiative will include the deployment of officers to all the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and the revitalization of the National Orientation Agency. The efficient functioning of these offices will play a crucial role in rebuilding trust and fostering a renewed sense of patriotism among Nigerians.
