The Nigerian federal government has emphasized the importance of responsible social media use among citizens and clarified any concerns about potential media restrictions under the Bola Tinubu administration. Mohammed Idris, the Minister for Information and National Orientation, made this announcement after a meeting with President Tinubu in Abuja. He assured the public that the Nigerian press would enjoy increased freedom under President Bola Tinubu's leadership.
Minister Idris stressed the need for responsible journalism and mentioned that President Tinubu had entrusted him with the task of rebuilding Nigerians' confidence in their nation. He disclosed plans for a national dialogue on orientation and reorientation to reestablish trust among the citizens.
Addressing questions about managing social media excesses, the Minister highlighted the importance of responsible freedom in press activities. He emphasized that while the government supports press freedom, it must be accompanied by accountability and responsibility. He clarified that the government had no intention to silence the press but intended to ensure responsible journalism.
Minister Idris also emphasized the government's efforts to revive patriotism and discipline among Nigerians. He stated that President Tinubu's administration was actively working to reintroduce the core values of discipline, patriotism, and belief in the nation's ideals. This initiative will redefine the roles of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, with a focus on national orientation.
During his visit to President Tinubu, Minister Idris shared his plans to revitalize the Ministry of Information and National Orientation. He outlined a comprehensive strategy to restore faith in the country, including a national discourse on orientation and reorientation. This initiative aims to rebuild Nigerians' belief in their nation and promote a sense of patriotism among the citizens.
Minister Idris further elaborated on his mission to reset the Ministry of Information and National Orientation. He revealed that he had engaged with various department heads within the ministry, addressing its different agencies. The goal was to infuse a renewed sense of purpose and functionality into the ministry.
He highlighted the prevailing breakdown in the concept of nationhood and patriotism within the country and acknowledged the need for rebuilding these ideals. President Tinubu had given him a clear mandate: to instill a renewed sense of belief in Nigeria among its people. Minister Idris emphasized that this was a pivotal task in the present context, where faith in the nation had wavered.
The national discourse on orientation and reorientation, as proposed by the government, was envisioned as a platform for Nigerians to voice their concerns, aspirations, and ideas about the nation's future. It was intended to be an inclusive dialogue, encouraging citizens from all walks of life to participate actively.
Furthermore, Minister Idris announced plans for a comprehensive strategy aimed at revitalizing the information sector. He outlined initiatives to enhance media literacy, promote responsible journalism, and create awareness about the responsible use of social media platforms. These efforts were intended to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools necessary to distinguish between reliable information and misinformation.
In addition to these initiatives, the Minister stressed the importance of collaboration between the government, media organizations, and the public. He emphasized that rebuilding trust in the nation required collective efforts. The government would actively engage with media outlets, journalists, and social media influencers to foster a culture of responsible communication and reporting.
As the government embarked on these efforts, Minister Idris reassured the public that the principles of press freedom would be upheld. While there would be responsible guidelines to curb misinformation, the government remained committed to ensuring that the press could operate freely and independently. He concluded by expressing optimism that these initiatives would pave the way for a more informed, responsible, and patriotic Nigerian society, united in its vision for a better future.
